A Google Safe Browsing warning ("Deceptive site ahead" or "This site may harm your computer") appears as a full-page interstitial in Chrome and other browsers using the same list, and can also suppress your listing in Google Search.
Immediate steps
- Check Google Search Console’s Security Issues report for specifics on what was detected and on which pages
- Take the site offline or restrict access if active malware is confirmed, to stop it spreading to visitors while you investigate
- Identify and remove the malicious code — check recently modified files, unfamiliar admin users, and outdated plugins/themes as likely entry points
- Change all credentials (hosting, CMS admin, FTP/SSH) in case they were compromised as part of the same incident
- Request a review through Search Console once the site is confirmed clean
FAQ
How long until the warning disappears after requesting a review?
Typically a few hours to a few days once Google confirms the site is clean, but a rejected review (if malware is still present) resets the clock, so it’s worth confirming thoroughly before requesting review.