How can you prevent and deal with harmful bots?

To protect against harmful bots, start by identifying problems through website logs and evidence of actual harm, then reduce risk by updating systems, removing unnecessary integrations, and adding CAPTCHA. If the site has already been compromised or its functionality impaired, prioritize cleanup and patching vulnerabilities. Blocking IP addresses can temporarily stop activity from specific sources, but it cannot replace ongoing monitoring. The following summarizes security advice published on Neil Patel’s website in 2021 and by Semrush in 2023; it does not represent any platform’s current rules.

Identify the sources of unusual activity first, rather than treating all bots as attackers

Bots can also provide useful services, so the focus should be on their specific behavior and impact. The article on Neil Patel’s website recommends reviewing information such as web server access logs and login attempt notifications to look for recurring IP addresses or activity patterns. These are investigative leads; repeated visits from the same IP address alone should not be treated as proof of harmful activity.

For example, a source that repeatedly posts offensive comments or attempts unauthorized access provides a more concrete basis for action. If the website has been hacked, or some features are malfunctioning because of an infection, act promptly rather than waiting until every source has been identified before starting cleanup.

Start prevention with updates and an inventory of integrations

Outdated versions and integrations authorized to exchange data can leave exploitable vulnerabilities. Updates may introduce security features or blocking options, but they do not mean the website is completely secure. Start by checking the following:

• Website and plugins: Keep the platform, themes, and plugins updated, and remove unnecessary or outdated items.
• APIs and other connections: Check whether they are still in use and running the latest versions. Consider replacing products that lack security measures, and contact the provider with any questions.
• Backups and scanning: The Semrush article recommends automatic website backups, regular malware scans, and strong passwords and two-factor authentication for administrator accounts.

Add verification at interaction points, while recognizing its limitations

The supplied material lists registration, contact forms, and purchase processes as places to use CAPTCHA. By requiring users to complete a challenge, verification can block bots that cannot complete it—for example, to help prevent form spam.

CAPTCHA does not guarantee that only humans can pass. The explanation in the 2021 article is conditional: this barrier blocks bots only if their programming does not enable them to complete the challenge. It is therefore suitable as one layer of defense, not as a reason to forgo updates and vulnerability patches.

When problems arise, distinguish temporary blocking from ongoing remediation

Consider blocking the IP addresses of sources that persistently cause problems. However, attackers may switch to other IP addresses, while other users and bots sharing the blocked address will also be denied access. Weigh these effects before deciding.

If the site has already been attacked, focus on cleanup and patching vulnerabilities. If it has not, identify and address exploitable weaknesses first. Continue monitoring for unusual activity rather than treating a single block as the end of the matter. If the problem or risk exceeds your ability to handle it, seek an in-depth investigation from outside professionals. You can also evaluate paid bot-blocking services, but these cannot replace ongoing checks.