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This thread is resolved. Here is a description of the problem and solution.

Problem:
You are receiving spam emails on email addresses linked to websites after using WPML. You suspect that WPML might be causing this issue.
Solution:
We suggest that the presence of your email address on the website's pages might be the reason for receiving spam emails, rather than the use of WPML itself. Since WPML only makes your site available in multiple languages, it does not influence the security of email addresses displayed on your site. To reduce spam, consider removing your email address from the website or replacing it with a contact form. This way, your email remains hidden from public view, reducing the likelihood of receiving spam.
If you still suspect WPML is causing the issue, try disabling WPML temporarily to see if the spam emails stop. This can help determine whether WPML is related to the problem.

Please note that this solution might be outdated or not applicable to your specific case. If the issue persists, we highly recommend checking related known issues at https://wpml.org/known-issues/, verifying the version of the permanent fix, and confirming that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. If needed, do not hesitate to open a new support ticket with us for further assistance.

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This topic contains 3 replies, has 1 voice.

Last updated by mohamedA-110 5 days, 10 hours ago.

Assisted by: Andreas W..

Author Posts
February 14, 2025 at 2:31 pm #16706803

mohamedA-110

Background of the issue:
I started using WPML on my website a few years ago, and after that, I began receiving spam emails on the email address linked to this website. I tried to solve the problem but couldn't. Recently, I used WPML on another website, and the email address for this site also started receiving spam emails. I have never had this problem before.

Symptoms:
Receiving spam emails on email addresses linked to websites after using WPML.

Questions:
What is the cause of receiving spam emails after using WPML?
How can I solve the problem of receiving spam emails?

February 14, 2025 at 5:15 pm #16707611

Andreas W.
Supporter

Languages: English (English ) Spanish (Español ) German (Deutsch )

Timezone: America/Lima (GMT-05:00)

Hello,

I am sorry to hear that you are running into this issue.

We had an incident in 2019 which is explained in detail here:
https://wpml.org/announcements/2019/01/wpml-org-site-back-to-normal-after-an-attack-during-the-weekend/

We asked back then all users to reset their accounts. Did you reset your wpml.org account password since then? If not, please do it now.

For any further assistance about this issue, please reach out here:
https://wpml.org/home/contact-us/contact-form/

We apologize for the inconvenience.

Best regards
Andreas

February 14, 2025 at 6:30 pm #16707812

mohamedA-110

Hello,
My case is different once I installed WPML on my website and started working on it and because my website's first page has an email address on it so that the guests can send us emails because we offer an online service I started receiving spam emails on this email address although before installing WMPL I didn't receive any spam messages I also have lots of websites and I only receive spam message on the two websites that are translated using WPML.. so what is the problem and how to fix it, my password is safe and it wasn't hacked thanks GOD but the email on the website that is dedicated to guest is receiving spam emails..

February 14, 2025 at 6:50 pm #16707853

Andreas W.
Supporter

Languages: English (English ) Spanish (Español ) German (Deutsch )

Timezone: America/Lima (GMT-05:00)

As you are saying:
"my website's first page has an email address on it"

I am not sure how having WPML active on the site should somehow have an influence on a publicly available email that is being addressed with unexpected emails.

The only difference when it comes to WPML is that the site is available in German and French.

It would be more secure to not display the email on any page and use a Contact Form which visitors can use to leave an email in your inbox.

---

Could you please elaborate in more detail on what makes you think that it is caused by WPML?

The only way to confirm this would be by disabling WPML for a day or two and verifying if you are still getting emails.

February 15, 2025 at 6:19 am #16708398

mohamedA-110

ok thanks.