the wp_users table deleted itself.
Database tables simply do not “delete themselves”. Best guess, your database is either damaged or has crashed and been badly restored at some point. Have you spoken to your hosts about it? In your shoes, I’d be suspecting multiple server/host problems.
I’ve just emailed my host to see if they can perform a full systems backup.
I’m also going to look at changing hosts, because I am unsure if this is a problem with the host, or if it could be a hacker? Either way, I’m thinking changing hosts will help if it’s either of these problems.
I’m just hoping that if I/we can diagnose the problem that it can be prevented from happening again.
So, it turns out it’s a hacker.
My index page was changed to redirect to another website. Since fixing this, I now have the original issue with the error.
I have no idea still what’s causing this.
UK Web Solutions Direct
Also, since my last post, I think I’ve found the issue – the Moderation Keys line in the wp_options database have been completely changed to various swear words.
Is there any way I can generate new keys or find the old ones?
UK Web Solutions Direct
I use them myself. They’re excellent hosts with well-secured servers & good support. So we should be able to rule out a server-wide hack.
the Moderation Keys line in the wp_options database have been completely changed to various swear words.
That in itself could be quite innocent. See Settings -> Discussion -> Comment Moderation. I’m guessing that, at some time in the past, you entered some blacklisted words into the text area in that section.
Ah okay, yeah. That makes sense!
So, I can’t see what the problem could be though. With regards to the error message ERROR: $table_prefix in wp-config.php can only contain numbers, letters, and underscores., what should I be looking for in regards to fixing it?
I’m thinking about starting the WordPress from scratch – copying the theme across, and reinstalling plugins and stuff, I don’t know. Is this worth doing? Also, if I do this, how possible would it be to migrate content from A to B? Posts and pages and stuff? We’re looking at building a new site in the future, so ideally I’d like to just get it done quickly and pretty hassle free, because at the moment, I’m just trying to resecure my server – changing passwords, database passwords/usernames and any other setting that could be used to gain access.
