The internet is based on the exchange of digital information. When you browse, you’re either sending or receiving data, but usually, you don’t worry about the safety or security of the data you’re exchanging. Data security is something we all take for granted – and that needs to change.

What are SSL certificates?

SSL stands for Secure Socket Layer, a piece of technology that sits between your browser and the sites you access. Most websites have an SSL certificate issued by a “trusted certifying authority,” or third party authorities. All browsers recognize these certificates and, when confidential data needs to be exchanged, the SSL is fired up to encrypt it before it is sent and decrypt it once it is received.

That means anyone eavesdropping on the line won’t be able to see what information lies in the data being transmitted. Anyone without an SSL certificate would not be able to decrypt the data.

How do you know if you’re browsing on a secure site?

If a site doesn’t have an SSL certificate, you shouldn’t enter personal data on it, like passwords, bank details and social security numbers.

But, how do you know whether or not a site has an SSL?

It’s all in the URL. Look for an “s” in the “https://” of the website’s URL. Websites with “http://” URLs don’t have any certificates installed and you should avoid inputting any sensitive data.

Before entering any credit card information, always look for that s. Alternatively, if you own a website, and especially an ecommerce one, you will need to purchase an SSL license if you intend to do any business online.

What are the advantages of SSL to ecommerce?

What does security mean when it comes to your doing business online?

1. Your customers are protected.

Having an SSL certificate on your site means everyone who comes to do business with you will have their data protected, leading to greater peace of mind when it comes data theft that could ruin your business and your clients’ lives.

2. People are more likely to use your site.

With the right certificate in place, you may be chosen over your competitors who don’t have this security installed. That means more sales and greater brand credibility.

3. No more phishing.

One way hackers steal data from online users is by creating replica websites and capturing data from unsuspecting victims. This method, known as phishing, uses a domain name and site design similar to already-existing sites. The SSL certificate issuing authorities prevent these domain names from existing, constantly checking for fraudulent copycats.

4. You can allow payment card transactions.

If you want to sell goods or services and accept credit or debit payments, you’ll need to have SSL installed. The Payment Card Industry compliance requires businesses to have an SSL certificate with the proper encryption of at least 128-bits. Without it, your website won’t be able to install applications that allow for card payments.

Where can you get an SSL certificate?

There are companies that sell SSL certificates. You can sign up and get your certificate for a pre-determined amount of time. If you’re not sure about paying money for your license, you can always opt for free SSL certificates that are sold for shorter amounts of time and can continuously be renewed. Start there and then upgrade to something more long-term.

Get your SSL certificate today.

There shouldn’t be anything stopping you. If the security of your clients’ information isn’t enough of a motivator, the opportunity to make more money through online sales should be. Do your research, sign up for certification and feel confident that you’re helping keep crucial data safe.