How to resolve website blocked by ISP

Website blocked by ISP due to false positive malicious content

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) may block websites they perceive as hosting malicious content to protect users. However, these blocks can sometimes be false positives, where legitimate websites are mistakenly flagged. Such situations can disrupt access for users and harm your site’s reputation. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintain seamless access and trust.

Identifying if your website is blocked

To determine if your website is blocked by an ISP:

1. Test accessibility across networks:
   • Attempt to access your site using different ISPs, VPNs, mobile data, or proxy servers. If the site is accessible on some networks but not others, it indicates a potential ISP block.
2. Check online blacklists:
   • Utilize tools like Google Safe Browsing, VirusTotal, and Sucuri to see if your domain is listed as malicious.
3. Gather user feedback:
   • Consult with users experiencing access issues to gather information about their ISPs and any error messages received.

If your website is accessible via alternative networks but blocked on specific ISPs, it suggests a false positive block.

Steps to resolve false positive blocks

1. Update and secure your website

• Keep software current:
  • Regularly update WordPress core, themes, and plugins to their latest versions to patch vulnerabilities.
• Remove unnecessary components:
  • Delete outdated or unused plugins and themes to minimize potential security risks.
• Conduct malware scans:
  • Use reputable security plugins like Wordfence, Sucuri, or MalCare to scan for and address any malware or security issues.

2. Contact your ISP

• Provide evidence of security:
  • Reach out to the ISP’s support team with details of the block and evidence from security scans demonstrating your site’s cleanliness.
• Request reevaluation:
  • Formally ask the ISP to reassess your website and lift the block if it’s determined to be a false positive.

3. Utilize webmaster tools

• Google search console:
  • If Google has flagged your site, use Search Console to identify issues and request a review after resolving them.
• Bing webmaster tools:
  • Similarly, check Bing’s webmaster tools for any flags and address them accordingly.

4. Implement preventative measures

• Enable HTTPS:
  • Install an SSL certificate to secure data transmission and boost user trust.
• Monitor security regularly:
  • Schedule regular security scans and stay informed about potential threats to proactively address issues.

Final notes

• Communicate with users:
  • Inform affected users about the issue and suggest temporary solutions like using a VPN or alternative network.
• Document and learn:
  • Keep records of the incident to understand the cause and prevent future occurrences.
• Stay informed:
  • Regularly review security practices and stay updated on potential threats to maintain your site’s integrity.

Addressing false positive blocks promptly ensures uninterrupted access for users and maintains your website’s credibility.