How do I know if my website is secure & why do I care?

a security padlock indicating a website is secure

Every time you enter a website and view a padlock next to the URL, it means the website is secure. You may think this only applies to online shopping websites that collect credit card information for payment; this is not true – it applies to all websites.

It's about privacy!

This may seem a little too technical, but it's worth the lesson if it helps you protect your privacy while online and that of your customers. Website addresses start with either HTTP or HTTPS. For example, the full address for this website page is https://webdesignbyrobin.com/resources/how-do-i-know-if-my-website-is-secure.

The "S" in HTTPS stands for secure. When you enter a website with just HTTP, the website you visit and all the data sent over the connection is in the clear. Nothing is private.

Adding an SSL Certificate

When an SSL certificate is installed on a website, it adds an extra layer of security and creates an encrypted connection that protects the website visitors' privacy. Any information shared between the website visitor, and the website is encrypted. All traffic to the website is now directed through HTTPS. If you click on the padlock, you can learn about the SSL certificate and its protection.

Your connection to this site is not secure

Google cares about security!

In 2018 Google decided that protecting the privacy of those browsing the internet was important. In fact, it was so important that it was going to present a warning to anyone entering a non-secure website. Furthermore, if your business website is not secure, your website's Google ranking would be negatively affected.

This connection is not private

Don't turn away customers!

Let's face it; your customers use Google to find you whether they know you are not. It's how we look for the websites we want to find and return to. Google is the gateway. 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.

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