9 Best WordPress Malware Scanners to Keep Your Site Secure
A malware scanner plugin is the easiest and most effective way to remove malware from your WordPress site.

1. Word fence Security: A Comprehensive WordPress Protection Tool



- Real-Time Firewall Updates: Get the latest security rules as soon as new threats are detected (Premium feature).
- Live Traffic Monitoring: See who visits your site and identifies potential attackers.
Two-Factor Authentication: Enhance the security of your login process by requiring an additional verification step. - Country Blocking: Restrict access from regions with high attack rates (Premium feature).
Centralized Control: Oversee the security of several websites through one unified dashboard.
Pros: - A comprehensive security solution with firewall and malware scanning.
- Regular updates to protect against emerging threats.
- A user-friendly interface with clear security alerts.
- A robust free version with many useful features.
Cons: - 30 days delay free version updates.
- Some sites may experience slower speeds.
- Certain advanced features are exclusive to the premium version.
Pricing:
Free Version: Includes essential firewall
protection, malware scanning, two-factor authentication, and live traffic monitoring.
Premium Plan: This plan starts at $119/year and includes real-time firewall rules, country blocking, and premium support.
The free version is sufficient for many WordPress sites, offering essential protection.
However, the premium version is more suitable if you manage a high-traffic site, handle sensitive data, or need immediate protection against the latest threats.
For those needing premium support or help with installation and maintenance, paid plans may be a good option.
2. Reliable Protection



Key Features:
- Real-time security dashboard: Monitor your WordPress site’s security status, including brute force attacks and malware scans, from one intuitive dashboard.
- Passwordless logins: Enhance login security with biometric authentication, eliminating the need for traditional passwords.
- Automated vulnerability patching: With Solid Security Pro, temporary security patches are automatically applied to protect your site from newly discovered vulnerabilities.
- User group security: Set different security levels for various user accounts to better control access and permissions.
- Site templates: Customize your security measures based on your specific site needs, ensuring tailored protection.
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners: Its easy-to-use interface and quick setup make it perfect for those new to WordPress security.
Time-saving for multi-site - management: You can manage multiple WordPress sites from one dashboard, reducing the time spent on security tasks.
- Affordable: Provides excellent value with a competitive pricing structure compared to other security plugins offering similar features.
- Proactive security approach: Focuses on preventing issues before they happen, rather than just reacting after attacks occur.
Cons:
- Advanced features locked behind the Pro version: Some sophisticated malware detection and removal options are only available in the premium plan.
- Best for new sites: While ideal for newer WordPress installations, using it with existing sites may cause occasional bugs or issues.
- Potential compatibility issues: Modifying core WordPress files can lead to compatibility problems with some themes and plugins.
Pricing:
The free version includes essential features like malware scanning, brute force protection, and two-factor authentication for WordPress sites.
- Pro version: The Pro version starts at $59.40 for the first year (regular price $99/year) for a single site. It adds powerful features such as real-time malware scanning, automated vulnerability patching, and passwordless logins.
- Choosing between free and Pro:The free version provides sufficient security for most small to medium WordPress sites. However, the Pro version is more suitable for e-commerce sites, those handling sensitive data, or users managing multiple WordPress sites.
3.Security Audits


Key Features:
- Vulnerability Scanning: Thorough scans to identify security holes in your website’s configuration, plugins, and themes.
- Firewall Protection: Built-in firewall to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate common security attacks.
- Security Audits: Regular security audits to assess the overall status of your WordPress site and its security measures.
- File Integrity Monitoring: Monitors file changes and alerts you of unauthorized modifications, keeping your site secure.
- Automated Fixes: Automatically resolves issues discovered during scans, providing immediate protection from potential threats.
Pros: - User-Friendly: Simple interface that makes security management easy for all levels of users.
- Proactive Protection: Regular updates ensure your site is always protected from the latest security risks.
- Affordable Pricing: Cost-effective plans for users of all types, offering great value for comprehensive security features.
Real-Time Monitoring: Provides real-time alerts to notify you of any suspicious activity or potential threats.
Cons:
Advanced Features in Premium - Version: Some advanced tools, such as automated vulnerability fixes and firewall protection, require a premium subscription.
- False Positives: Occasionally, legitimate files or actions might be flagged as potential threats.
- Limited Customization: This may not offer advanced customization options for experienced users who prefer detailed control.
Pricing: - Free Version: Basic scanning and alerts for smaller websites or casual users.
- Pro Version: Priced at $29.95 annually, unlocking advanced features like automated fixes, enhanced firewall protection, and additional scanning options.
- Multiple Site Discounts: Discounted plans are available for users managing multiple WordPress sites.
Security Ninja is a powerful security tool for WordPress users. It combines comprehensive protection with ease of use and competitive pricing. Whether running a small blog or managing multiple sites, it’s an ideal solution for safeguarding your digital presence.
4. All-In-One Security WordPress Plugin


Key Features:
- Vulnerability Scanning: Thorough scans to identify security holes in your website’s configuration, plugins, and themes.
- Firewall Protection: Built-in firewall to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate common security attacks.
- Security Audits: Regular security audits to assess the overall status of your WordPress site and its security measures.
- File Integrity Monitoring: Monitors file changes and alerts you of unauthorized modifications, keeping your site secure.
- Automated Fixes: Automatically resolves issues discovered during scans, providing immediate protection from potential threats.
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Simple interface that makes security management easy for all levels of users.
- Proactive Protection: Regular updates ensure your site is always protected from the latest security risks.
- Affordable Pricing: Cost-effective plans for users of all types, offering great value for comprehensive security features.
Real-Time Monitoring: Provides real-time alerts to notify you of any suspicious activity or potential threats.
Cons:
Advanced Features in Premium - Version: Some advanced tools, such as automated vulnerability fixes and firewall protection, require a premium subscription.
- False Positives: Occasionally, legitimate files or actions might be flagged as potential threats.
- Limited Customization: This may not offer advanced customization options for experienced users who prefer detailed control.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Basic scanning and alerts for smaller websites or casual users.
- Pro Version: Priced at $29.95 annually, unlocking advanced features like automated fixes, enhanced firewall protection, and additional scanning options.
All-In-One Security WordPress Plugin - The All-In-One Security plugin for WordPress provides a comprehensive security solution to protect your website from multiple threats.
Key Features:
- Brute Force Attack Protection: Protects against brute-force login attempts by limiting login attempts and adding CAPTCHA.
- File Integrity Monitoring: Monitors your site’s files for unauthorized changes, ensuring your site remains intact.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) requires a second form of authentication to add an extra layer of protection to user logins.
Malware Scanning: Scans your website for malware, ensuring any malicious code is quickly detected and removed. - Login and User Management: Restrict login attempts and manage user roles to minimize unauthorized access.
Pros:
Comprehensive Protection: This feature covers a wide range of security concerns, from login protection to file monitoring and malware scanning. - User-Friendly Interface: Ideal for both beginners and experienced users, with easy setup and configuration options.
- Regular Updates: Frequent updates ensure your site is protected against emerging threats.
- Cost-Effective: Provides extensive features even in the free version, with affordable premium options for additional tools.
Cons:
- Limited Advanced Features in Free Version: Some features, such as scheduled malware scanning and advanced firewall settings, require the pro version.
- Could Be Overwhelming for Beginners: Although it offers many features, some users may find the initial setup process complex.
- Performance Impact: The plugin may cause slight performance issues, particularly on more significant sites with heavy traffic.
Pricing:
- Free Version: Includes basic security features like login protection, file integrity monitoring, and malware scanning.
- Pro Version: This plan starts at $59.95 per year for one website and offers advanced protection tools, including scheduled scans and enhanced firewall options.
- Multi-Site Plans: Discounts are available for users managing multiple WordPress sites, making it an affordable choice for larger websites.
All-In-One Security is a solid choice for WordPress users seeking a comprehensive security solution. It’s perfect for websites of all sizes and offers a good balance of protection and affordability.
5. Defender Security


Defender is a robust malware scanner plugin that protects your WordPress site from various security threats and includes unique features like login masking. This allows you to change the default location of your WordPress login page, significantly reducing automated attacks.
Defender has earned widespread positive reviews for its efficiency and reliability, making it a favorite among WordPress users.
Key Features:Security
- Recommendations: Enhance your site’s security with one-click fixes for vulnerabilities.
- Malware Scanner: Detect malicious code and unexpected changes in your WordPress files, themes, and plugins.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of protection using app verification or biometric methods.
- Login Protection: Mask your login page and enable lockout mechanisms to prevent brute force attacks.
- Firewall Protection: Shield your site from malicious traffic and common threats like SQL injections.
pros:
User-friendly for beginners, eliminating the need for manual security adjustments.
Affordable Pro plan, accessible even for small budgets.
Features like login masking and Geo IP blocking are rare among security plugins.
Regular updates to tackle emerging WordPress vulnerabilities.
Cons:
Limited control over specific automated security changes.
Advanced features, such as Safe Repair and scheduled malware scanning, are exclusive to the premium version.
Pricing:
Free Version: Includes essential security features for core protection.
Pro Version: This version starts at $3 per month (billed annually) and offers advanced tools like automated malware scanning and Safe Repair.
Whether you’re a beginner seeking simple solutions or a professional managing multiple sites, Defender provides reliable security options tailored to your needs.
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Key Features:
- Automatic Malware Scanning: Daily scans to detect hidden malware before it causes damage.
One-Click Malware - Removal: Eliminates malware swiftly and efficiently without risking your site’s functionality.
- Firewall Defense: Safeguards against malicious traffic and restricts unauthorized access.
- Login Protection: Prevents brute force attacks by limiting login attempts and monitoring suspicious activity.
- Real-Time Alerts: Notifies you of potential threats, allowing you to take action immediately.
- Cloud-Based Scanning: Ensures that scans don’t slow down your site by running them on MalCare’s servers.
Pros:
Simple to operate, making it accessible even for users without technical skills.Easy to use, even for those with no technical expertise.
Malware scanning and removal tools are highly effective and reliable.
Doesn’t overload your server, keeping your site’s performance unaffected.
Includes features for ongoing monitoring and proactive security management.
Cons:
Advanced features like integrated backups require a higher-tier plan.
The free version offers limited functionality compared to premium plans.
Pricing:
Free Plan: Includes basic malware scanning and firewall features.
Premium Plans: Start at $99/year, offering unlimited malware removal, real-time alerts, and enhanced protection tools.
MalCare is an excellent choice for anyone looking to secure their WordPress website without compromising usability or performance. Whether you’re managing a personal blog or an e-commerce platform, MalCare provides robust tools to keep your site safe.
7. SecuPress: Your Comprehensive WordPress Security Solution


Key Features:
Malware Scanning: Detect and eliminate malicious code hidden in your site’s files or database.
Brute Force Protection: Safeguard your login page with advanced algorithms to prevent unauthorized access attempts.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your WordPress login.
Vulnerability Detection: Automatically identify and fix weaknesses in your plugins, themes, or core files.
IP Blocking: Restrict access from suspicious IP addresses to minimize threats.
Pros:
Easy-to-use interface suitable for all skill levels.
Comprehensive scanning tools to detect and resolve potential risks.
Performance optimization tools to ensure security measures don’t slow down your site.
Detailed reports for tracking and improving security over time.
Cons:
Some advanced features, like automated fixes and extended support, require a premium subscription.
Slight learning curve for users unfamiliar with advanced security settings.
Pricing:
Free Version: Includes essential security features such as basic malware scanning and brute force protection.
Premium Plans: Starting at $69/year, offering advanced tools like two-factor authentication, automated fixes, and priority support.
SecuPress strikes an excellent balance between simplicity and advanced protection, making it a reliable choice for WordPress users who want to secure their websites without hassle.
8. Security & Malware Scan by CleanTalk: A Complete Protection Solution for WordPress

The Security & Malware Scan by CleanTalk plugin is a robust and lightweight security tool for WordPress websites. It offers advanced features to detect vulnerabilities, scan for malware, and protect your site from unauthorized access.

Key Features
- Malware Scanning: Regularly scans your site for malicious code, backdoors, and potential threats.
- Security Audit Log: Tracks all user activity on your site, helping you identify suspicious behavior.
- Firewall Protection: Blocks harmful traffic, including bots and hackers, to keep your site safe.
- Brute Force Protection: Secures your login page by limiting failed login attempts.
- Automatic Malware Removal: Cleans infected files automatically, ensuring minimal downtime.
- File Integrity Monitoring: Alerts you to unauthorized changes in core WordPress files.
Pros
Easy-to-use dashboard with clear reports on your website’s security status.
Real-time protection against common threats like SQL injections and cross-site scripting (XSS).
Affordable pricing for premium features compared to competitors.
Suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
A lightweight plugin that doesn’t slow down your site.
Cons
Some advanced features, like automatic malware removal, require a premium subscription.
Limited customization options are available for advanced users looking for granular control.
Pricing
- Free Version: Includes basic malware scanning and firewall protection.
- Premium Plans: Starting at $12/year, offering features like automated malware removal and extended support.
Security & Malware Scan by CleanTalk is an excellent choice for WordPress users who need a balance of simplicity, effectiveness, and affordability. Whether you’re running a small blog or an enterprise site, this plugin ensures your website stays secure with minimal effort.
9. BulletProof Security: A Reliable Defense for WordPress Websites


Key Features
- Login Security and Monitoring: Protects against brute force attacks with login attempt limits and detailed login activity logs.
- Malware Scanner: Scans WordPress files for malicious code, backdoors, and other threats.
- Database Backup and Restore: Ensures your data is safe with scheduled backups and easy restoration.
- Firewall Protection: Offers a comprehensive .htaccess-based firewall to block unauthorized access and malicious traffic.
- Maintenance Mode: Allows you to work on your site securely while visitors are offline.
- Intrusion Detection: Tracks and blocks suspicious activities on your site.
- Idle Session Timeout: This feature automatically logs out users who are inactive for a set period, minimizing the chance of unauthorized access to your website.
Pros
All-in-one security solution with multiple layers of protection.
Highly customizable, making it suitable for advanced users.
Offers detailed setup wizards to help with installation and configuration.
One-time purchase for premium features, avoiding recurring costs.
The streamlined design guarantees it won’t impact your website’s loading speed.
Cons
The interface can be overwhelming for beginners due to its extensive options.
Advanced settings require some technical knowledge to optimize.
Pricing
- Free Version: Includes basic security features like malware scanning, login monitoring, and essential firewall protection.
- Pro Version: A one-time payment of $69.95 offers enhanced features like auto-restore for backups, advanced malware removal, and additional security layers.
BulletProof Security is a reliable choice for WordPress users looking for a robust and customizable security plugin. Its strong protection and cost-effective premium options make it a valuable tool for keeping your site safe from cyber threats.
Why it's essential to use a malware scanner for your WordPress site
Malware scanners are essential for keeping your WordPress website secure and functioning smoothly. They help protect your site from data breaches, unwanted ads, spam, search engine blocklisting, SEO penalties, and slow performance.
Here’s how malware scanners enhance WordPress site security:
Plugin and Theme Vulnerabilities: WordPress sites often rely on various plugins and themes, which can become targets for hackers if they are outdated or poorly designed. A malware scanner helps identify these vulnerabilities before they impact your site.
Backdoor Access: Hackers may secretly install backdoors to access your site without proper authentication, making it difficult to detect. A malware scanner can uncover these hidden threats, even if they appear as regular files.
Search Engine Issues: Malware can inject spam or hidden links into your site, negatively affecting its search engine ranking. Regular scans can detect and remove these malicious additions to maintain your site’s SEO health.
Data Theft Prevention: Some malware is designed to steal sensitive data such as user information or financial details. A scanner helps protect against this by identifying and eliminating harmful code before it can cause harm.
Server-Level Threats: Malware can sometimes affect your entire server, which is particularly dangerous if you share your server with other websites. Malware scanners can stop such threats from spreading beyond your WordPress site.
Automatic Malware Injections: Some sophisticated attacks can automatically insert harmful code into your files without your knowledge. Regular scans help catch and address these issues promptly.
Scanning Frequency Guidelines:
For small to medium-sized sites: Run a full scan at least once a week.
For large, high-traffic sites or online stores, Daily scans are recommended.
After significant updates or site changes: Always perform a scan after substantial changes.
Choose a scanner that offers continuous monitoring for real-time threat detection and resolution .
Malware scanners are essential for keeping your WordPress website secure and functioning smoothly.
They help protect your site from data breaches, unwanted ads, spam, search engine blacklisting, SEO penalties, and slow performance.
Here’s how malware scanners enhance WordPress site security:
Plugin and Theme Vulnerabilities: WordPress sites often rely on various plugins and themes, which can become targets for hackers if they are outdated or poorly designed. A malware scanner helps identify these vulnerabilities before they impact your site.
Backdoor Access: Hackers may secretly install backdoors to access your site without proper authentication, making it difficult to detect. A malware scanner can uncover these hidden threats, even if they appear as regular files.
When selecting a WordPress malware scanner, several essential factors must be considered to ensure you choose the right tool for your website’s security needs. Here’s what to consider:
Detection Accuracy: Choose a scanner that accurately detects various threats, including malware, viruses, trojans, and backdoors. A reliable scanner will minimize false positives and effectively catch malicious code.
Real-Time Protection: Some scanners offer real-time protection that monitors your site for threats, preventing issues before they escalate. This can be crucial for high-traffic websites where quick responses to threats are essential.
Ease of Use: Look for a user-friendly scanner that doesn’t require technical expertise. A straightforward dashboard with easy-to-understand alerts and recommendations is ideal.
Comprehensive Security Features: Look for scanners that offer more than malware detection. Look for features such as firewall protection, spam filtering, brute force attack prevention, and vulnerability scanning.
Automatic Scans: A scanner that can perform automated scans regularly is beneficial for reducing manual workload. Some scanners even schedule scans during off-peak hours to avoid disrupting site performance.
Scan Speed: The scanner should be able to complete security scans quickly without affecting your website’s performance. A fast, efficient scanner helps you stay on top of security without slowing down your site.
Customization Options: Some malware scanners allow you to customize the frequency and depth of scans. This flexibility lets you tailor the scanning process to meet your site’s needs.
Support and Updates: Ensure your chosen scanner is regularly updated to handle new threats. Reliable customer support is also essential if you need assistance with issues or configurations.
Compatibility with Other Plugins: Make sure the scanner works well with your existing WordPress setup, including other security plugins, themes, and any customizations you may have made.
Pricing and Value: While free malware scanners are available, they may offer limited features. Consider the features of the premium version and weigh them against your site’s security needs and budget.
By evaluating these factors, you can choose a malware scanner that provides robust, reliable protection for your WordPress site while fitting your specific requirements.
Conclusion
Selecting the right WordPress malware scanner ensures a secure and dependable website. It is essential to choose one that fits your needs and offers the right level of protection.
Here’s a look at some top malware scanner plugins available:
Word fence Security: A widely trusted plugin known for its all-around protection and intuitive user interface.
Security Ninja: An excellent choice for advanced users who prefer greater control over their website’s security features.
Malware: Provides fast malware detection and automatic cleaning for a hassle-free experience.
Defender Security: Ideal for beginners, this plugin automates security tasks to simplify the process.
These options provide a good mix of efficiency, ease of use, and value. Your choice will depend on factors like your technical skills, budget, and your website’s specific security needs.
WordPress doesn’t include a built-in malware scanner. It offers some basic security features but lacks comprehensive protection against malware and other threats. You’ll need to install a dedicated security plugin for malware protection.
You should use a malware scanner regularly as part of your WordPress maintenance routine. It’s also a necessary tool if you’re starting a new website. If you own an eCommerce website or a high-traffic site, it’s best to scan it at least once a week (best to scan it daily). However, the best option is to have ongoing malware checks happening in real-time.
Free malware scanners can provide basic protection, but they often have limitations. While reputable free scanners are generally safe to use, they may not offer comprehensive protection or frequent updates. You can start with a free version of any tools in this guide and purchase the premium version once you figure out the basics.