Google Webmaster Message!!
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Hello,
One of my clients is using an old version of wordpress.
On google's web master tools there are about 5 messages recommending an upgrade.
My question is: Could this affect rankings?
Thanks
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Agreed but Create a back up prior to updating to be sure that whatever theme and plugins you are using work.
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I'm with Mark - definitely not a rankings issue unless and until the older, vulnerable version results in the client getting hacked by somebody like a pharma spammer. Or worse yet, something that hosts and distributes malware via thier site and ends up getting them marked with the dreaded Red Box of Death (Google blocking the site as dangerous).
WordPress updating is not especially difficult, as long as the client has a proper quality backup ready in case anything should go wrong. The cost (either time or fee to a reputable systems administrator-type) should be considered a standard operating cost just like hosting fees and domain registration (ans SEO!).
It's really not worth the risk not to stay updated, especially if the client is depending on the income from their site.
Paul
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It's more of a site security issue - not updating your wordpress and plugins leaves you vulnerable to security flaws exploited in old wordpress installs - Google is trying to help you and encourage you to update your wordpress to maintain security and prevent the site from being hacked.
I don't believe it's a rankings issue, but more quality of website and health of the web in general issue that Google is sending out these messages.
You can refer to this blog post on State of Search for more info.
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