Is your website secure? Do you have an SSL Certificate? BCI Media Services is diligently attempting to prepare our clients for the release of Chrome 68. Beginning in July of this year, websites without one will be marked as “not secure” in Chrome’s web address bar. This warning can result in reduced website engagement as it highlights the possibility of data breaches. Here’s what you need to know about SSL certificates.
What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate, securely allows encrypted communication between a web browser and a web server. When installed on a web server, the certificate authenticates the identity of the website. This informs users that the website they’re browsing is safe. It also encrypts any data transmitted between the web browser and web server, providing a higher level of security. In addition to encryption, a proper SSL certificate provides authentication. This means you can be sure that you’re sending information to the right place, and not a cyber thief trying to steal information. The nature of the Internet means that your customers will often be sending information through several computers. Any of these computers could pretend to be your website and trick your users into sending them personal information. It is only possible to avoid this by getting an SSL Certificate from a trusted SSL provider.
Why You Need an SSL Certificate on Your Website
If you sell products or services on your website and accept credit cards online, you need an SSL Certificate for security. In order to accept credit card information on your website, you must pass certain audits that show that you are complying with the Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards. One of the requirements is properly using an SSL Certificate. Making your website SSL compliant decreases the risk of sensitive data getting into the hands of hackers. This information includes usernames, passwords, emails, credit card numbers, etc. An SSL certificate also helps to reduce identity theft. It provides a safe exchange of information between the website and the internet browser.
If you have any questions about SSL certificates or would like to contact about BCI about installing an SSL certificate on your website, please contact us at [email protected].