Cybercriminals are once again targeting WordPress websites, particularly those operated by small businesses, with credit card skimming attacks. These attacks compromise your customers’ sensitive payment information and can harm your business reputation.
How the Attack Works
Cybersecurity experts from Sucuri have discovered that attackers are embedding malicious JavaScript into WordPress database tables associated with e-commerce content. The malware activates on checkout pages, hijacking legitimate payment forms or creating fake ones to steal critical information such as:
- Credit card numbers
- Expiration dates
- CVV numbers
- Billing details
This data is encoded, encrypted, and sent to the attacker’s server, making it difficult to detect.
Why This Matters to Small Businesses
Stolen payment information is often used for malicious ad campaigns, purchasing malware services, or acquiring gift cards. If your site becomes a target, you may lose customer trust and face potential financial or legal repercussions.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Website
Sucuri recommends the following steps to safeguard your WordPress site:
- Inspect Custom HTML Widgets:
- Log in to your WordPress admin panel.
- Navigate to wp-admin > Appearance > Widgets.
- Check all Custom HTML blocks for unfamiliar or suspicious code.
- Keep WordPress Updated:
- Regularly update your WordPress core, themes, and plugins to ensure they have the latest security patches.
- Manage Admin Accounts:
- Limit the number of admin accounts and enforce strong, unique passwords.
- File Integrity Monitoring:
- Use tools that alert you to unauthorized changes in your website’s files.
- Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF):
- A WAF can block malicious traffic and protect against known vulnerabilities.
Stay Vigilant
If you suspect your website may have been compromised, act immediately. Consult with a cybersecurity expert or utilize services like Sucuri to help you identify and remove malware.
For small business owners, maintaining a secure online store is essential to building customer trust and growing your business. Taking proactive measures can save you from the headaches and potential losses associated with cyberattacks.
1. What is a credit card skimmer?
A credit card skimmer is malicious software designed to steal payment information, such as credit card numbers, expiration dates, CVV codes, and billing details, from online checkout forms. This information is used by attackers for fraud or sold on the dark web.
2. How does the malware get onto my WordPress website?
Attackers exploit vulnerabilities in outdated WordPress plugins, themes, or the WordPress core. They embed malicious JavaScript into your website’s database or custom HTML widgets, which then activates on your checkout pages.
3. How can I tell if my website is compromised?
Signs your website may be infected include:
- Customers reporting fraudulent charges after using your site.
- Unfamiliar or suspicious code in Custom HTML widgets or database tables.
- Sudden changes in website functionality, especially on checkout pages.
- Alerts from website security plugins or tools.
4. What are the consequences of a credit card skimmer attack?
The impacts include:
- Loss of customer trust.
- Potential legal and financial liabilities if sensitive data is stolen.
- Blacklisting by payment processors or security agencies.
- Damage to your business reputation.
5. How can I protect my website from credit card skimmers?
To protect your site:
- Regularly update WordPress, plugins, and themes.
- Limit admin account access and use strong passwords.
- Monitor your site for unauthorized changes or unfamiliar code.
- Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF).
- Regularly back up your website and test restoration processes.
6. How do I check for malicious code in Custom HTML widgets?
To inspect widgets:
- Log in to your WordPress admin panel.
- Navigate to wp-admin > Appearance > Widgets.
- Look through all Custom HTML widgets for suspicious or unfamiliar code (e.g., JavaScript snippets you didn’t add).
7. What should I do if my website is compromised?
If you suspect an attack:
- Take your website offline to prevent further data theft.
- Contact a cybersecurity expert or service like Sucuri for assistance.
- Remove the malicious code and secure your site.
- Notify affected customers and your payment processor.
- Implement additional security measures to prevent future attacks.
8. Do I need technical knowledge to secure my website?
While some tasks may require technical skills, many security measures (like updates and backups) can be managed using plugins or user-friendly tools. For complex issues, consider hiring a cybersecurity expert.
9. Can I recover my business after an attack?
Yes, with swift action and transparency, you can regain customer trust. Notify your customers, address the vulnerabilities, and implement stronger security protocols. Regular monitoring will help you prevent future attacks.
10. What tools can help me secure my WordPress website?
Recommended tools and services include:
- Sucuri: For malware removal and ongoing security.
- Wordfence: A security plugin with a firewall and scanning capabilities.
- iThemes Security: Focuses on protecting your login and core areas.
- UpdraftPlus: For reliable backups.
- Cloudflare: For DDoS protection and content delivery.
11. How often should I update my WordPress site?
You should update WordPress, plugins, and themes as soon as updates are available, especially for security patches. Consider enabling automatic updates for minor releases.
12. Is a credit card skimmer attack covered by my business insurance?
It depends on your policy. Cyber liability insurance may cover damages from data breaches. Check with your provider to confirm your coverage and add protection if necessary.
By staying proactive and informed, you can protect your business and customers from the rising threat of credit card skimming attacks.