skip to content
774-565-0140How do I know if a website is secure?
The next time you visit a website, take a moment if you don’t already to check the address bar of your web browser. If there’s a closed padlock to the left of the URL, good news! You have landed on a secure website.
You may think this is only relevant for online shopping websites that collect credit card information for payment, but that’s simply not true. Every website should be secure.
It’s all about protecting your privacy!
If you’re not a website developer or designer, this may seem a little too technical, but it's a valuable lesson if it verifies how important it is for you to protect your privacy online, as well as the privacy of your valued customers.
Website addresses can start with either HTTP or HTTPS. For example, the full address for this website page you’re on right now is: https://webdesignbyrobin.com/resources/how-do-i-know-if-a-website-is-secure.
A website that starts with HTTP is not encrypted and is therefore not secure. There will be an open padlock to the left of the URL in the address bar of HTTP sites. This means that anyone who’s on that network can access any information sent through that connection. Nothing is private. It’s like sending a postcard.
The "S" in HTTPS stands for secure. These websites will have a closed padlock. All of the data that’s sent through this type of connection is encrypted so that no one can see it, protecting your privacy. This is like sending your sealed letter by registered mail.
Google cares about security
In 2018 Google decided that protecting the privacy of those browsing the internet was a huge priority. Since then, Google has and will present a warning anytime anyone enters a non-secure website. Furthermore, if your business website is not secure, your website's Google ranking will be negatively affected.
Adding an SSL Certificate
Luckily, if your website starts with HTTP, Website Design by Robin can add an SSL certificate, making it an HTTPS site. When you have this certificate installed on your website, it adds an extra layer of security that will protect the privacy of your website visitors. All traffic to the website will then be directed through HTTPS. Any information shared between the website visitor and the website will be protected by encryption. If you click on the closed padlock in the browser, you can learn about your SSL certificate, what it’s for and what it protects.
Don't turn away customers!
Let's face it; your customers use Google to find you whether they know you or not. Google is the gateway - it’s how we look for the websites we want to find and return to. If Google warns you or your customers to steer clear of a site, you do it.
What is the takeaway from this article? Protect yourself, your customers, and the integrity of your business by making your business website secure.