Last month saw the rollout of Google Chrome 62, which emphasises web security amid its host of new features. The browser has integrated a warning that flags all sites requesting user data without an SSL certificate as “Not Secure” in an attempt to decrease cyber attacks.

So, what’s an SSL certificate?

Simply put, it’s security technology used to establish an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. Without an SSL certificate, a secure connection cannot be established and personal information has the potential to be compromised. You can tell whether a site has an SSL certificate if the browser has HTTPS in the URL rather than HTTP.

Is SSL relevant to me?

+ Does your website take any user text input? This can be in the form of login panels, search bars, contact forms, and especially eCommerce stores.
+ Is your website on HTTP?

If you answered yes to both of these questions, you’ll need to install SSL to avoid being flagged with a “Not secure” warning.

How do you get an SSL certificate?

Most web hosting services will have options to enable SSL, with some even offering a one-click SSL option. Otherwise, you will need to contact your web hosting provider and ask them to enable your SSL certificate for you. Don’t hesitate to contact them if you have any queries about installing the certificate.

If you are installing your SSL certificate yourself and experiencing issues with migration, Why No Padlock? can help you determine which page items are not fully secure.

Why should I get an SSL certificate?

According to Google’s transparency report, 81% of pages on Chrome are loaded over HTTPS. This means that unsecured websites have become an obvious minority.

Without an SSL certificate in place, there is always the risk of your sensitive information being leaked. On an unsecure connection, hackers can access information including your credit card numbers, usernames and passwords among other things. When you use an SSL certificate, the data you share becomes unreadable to everyone except the server you are sending information to.

Furthermore, your credibility as a website owner is boosted when you have an SSL certificate. Potential customers and clients can rest assured that their personal information is in safe hands.

Don’t make up part of the minority group that is still using an unsecured connection — get your SSL certificate sorted now before Google flags your website.