Google Safe Browsing protects users by warning them about dangerous websites and downloads — keeping people safe from malware, phishing, and harmful content.
What Is a Repeat Offender? #
- If a website keeps switching between safe (compliant) and unsafe (noncompliant) behavior too often and too quickly, Google labels it a Repeat Offender.
- This means the site repeatedly gets flagged for issues like malware, phishing, or deceptive content but fixes problems temporarily or inconsistently.
Consequences for Repeat Offenders #
- Google notifies site owners by email sent to the Search Console registered email address.
- While labeled a Repeat Offender, the owner cannot request new reviews in Search Console to remove warnings.
- The Repeat Offender status lasts 30 days. After that, the owner can request a review again once the site is stable.
Why Does This Matter? #
- Being a Repeat Offender can damage your site’s reputation and user trust.
- Visitors will keep seeing warnings like “This site may harm your computer”, leading to lost traffic and credibility.
- Consistent, thorough fixes are better than quick, temporary patches.
FSIDM Quick Tips to Avoid Repeat Offender Status: #
- Regularly monitor your site with Google Search Console’s Security Issues report.
- Fix problems completely and permanently, don’t just patch temporarily.
- Keep all software, plugins, and third-party tools up to date and secure.
- Implement strong security practices (like malware scans, firewall, and login protections).
- If hacked, clean your site fully before requesting review.
Keeping your website consistently clean and secure is the best way to stay out of trouble and keep your visitors happy.