Google wants to see HTTPS everywhere. Websites beginning with https:// already rank higher in Google search results than their http:// counterparts. Starting in October 2017, the stakes are even higher. Google has cautioned that Chrome will display a “Not Secure” warning “when users enter data on an HTTP page, and on all HTTP pages visited in Incognito mode.” (Incognito Mode is a form of anonymous web browsing, where user searches are not recorded in Browsing History.) This means that all HTTP sites containing
• Forms
• Login fields
• Passwords
will be marked “Not secure” when a website visitor begins to type. An entire site will be marked as unsecure if the viewer is in Incognito mode.
Like mobile phone use, the use of HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificates are expected to skyrocket in the coming years. Like Google, users will demand secure connections. They will look for the padlock or green browser bar—both signs of encryption—before entering personal information, making a purchase, or even browsing websites.
Without the HTTPS designation, you and your website may lose trust, business, and Google ranking. Take action now to prevent this.
You get the HTTPS label when you apply encryption. To begin, you need to decide which SSL certificate you want your website to have. An online store with hundreds of products may prompt you to select a different option than a simple blog. Choose a DV or domain-validated SSL certificate and you get the basic green padlock symbol. Select the EV or extended-validation certificate and your company name appears beside the padlock. We explained the possibilities for preparing for heightened security needs in our earlier post “What Is SSL And Why Do I Need A Certificate Now?” so use this as a guide.
Unfortunately, switching from HTTP to HTTPS is not a one-step process. Selecting your SSL certificate and desired level of obvious security are just the first step. Fortunately, Tate Design can assist you every step of the way with securing your website with HTTPS.
Don’t wait! Get started with a call to Tate Design at 610.725.0702 or an e-mail to [email protected].
