What a Fake Plugin Attack Looks Like on a WordPress Site (Real Case Study)

What Does a Fake Plugin Attack Look Like on WordPress?

We recently cleaned up a compromised WordPress site for a charity — and the attack had all the hallmarks of a classic “fake plugin” exploit.

Here’s what we found under the hood:

• A fake plugin named “LiteSpeed Cacher” — looked legit, but was pure malware
• Hidden PHP files scattered across /uploads/ and inside plugin folders
• News posts injected with gambling links
• A rogue admin account called adminbackup
• A remote file manager plugin quietly installed during working hours

Once we dug into the logs, it became clear: the attacker had accessed the site using a compromised admin login. With that level of access, they were free to post content, upload malicious files, and install whatever they liked.

Red Flags: What to Watch For

If you manage or maintain a WordPress site, watch for these warning signs:

• Plugins you don’t remember installing
• Author names you don’t recognise
• Strange outbound links (especially in older posts)
• New WordPress users you didn’t add
• Slow performance or weird behaviour in the admin area

How We Responded

We got the site locked back down quickly:

• Removed all rogue files and fake plugins
• Deleted suspicious user accounts
• Locked down file editing
• Added real-time monitoring and alerts
• Educated the client on account security and 2FA

Key takeaway: If someone’s not actively watching the back end of your WordPress site, your security risk compounds every day.

🚨 Security Is Now Front and Centre in All JMJ Care Plans

We’ve just rolled out revised WordPress Care Plans to boost security across the board. Every plan now includes:

• ✅ Automatic Plugin Security Protection
  Powered by Malcare, this alerts us instantly if one of your plugins is vulnerable.
• 🛡️ One-Click Malware Removal (VIP Plans)
  VIP clients now get access to instant malware removal— no waiting, no big manual clean-up bills.

We’ve baked in more security without raising prices — because prevention is always cheaper than cure.

Want to Sleep Better at Night?

If your site matters — to your customers, to your cause, or to your bottom line — don’t leave it wide open. Get proactive protection and expert eyes on it.

Check out our WordPress Maintenance Packages or get in touch if you’ve seen something sketchy on your site — we’re happy to take a look.