Why your website needs an SSL certificate

Why your website needs an SSL certificate

SSL certificates protect sensitive information First and foremost, an SSL certificate will ensure hackers cannot intercept a customer’s sensitive information or insert malware (malicious software) that can wreak havoc on your business’s server or customer’s devices. Websites not only serve as a purchasing portal but can also generate leads, build authority, and provide customer support. That’s why ALL websites, not just e-commerce sites, ought to secure their site with an SSL certificate. Because so much information is shared online, increasing your website’s security with an SSL certificate will help you establish trust with current and potential customers. If you’d like to start driving traffic to your site and boosting sales, read on to learn more about what an SSL certificate is and why your website needs one. What is an SSL certificate? Basically, an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate proves your website has been authenticated by a trusted authority called a Certificate Authority (CA) and that a secure connection between your organization’s server and public web browsers has been established. SSL uses encryption keys, a string of randomly generated numbers, to protect sensitive information sent from public users to your business’s private server. SSL uses a public key to disguise a user’s information (e.g. usernames and passwords, credit card info, browsing inputs) as an incoherent number sequence that only your organization’s private key can unlock. A computer can’t even decipher the encrypted messages, let alone a hacker. Good for SEO: SSL certificates increase Google rankings In 2014, Google announced HTTPS would be added to their ranking algorithms to determine a site’s search engine results page (SERP) rankings to ensure the privacy of their users would be protected. While HTTPS is not the single most important factor in increasing search visibility, Google has said HTTPS can act as a tiebreaker if all other website elements are equal. In the beginning of 2017, Google essentially began shaming websites for not using SSL security measures. Chrome users will now see a warning message when attempting to access unsecured or HTTP sites. While users are not barred access, this warning may send them a click backward. How will customers know my site is secured with SSL? Once your site has been authenticated with an SSL certificate, customers should see a padlock symbol in the search bar. Your website address will also begin with HTTPS rather than HTTP. The “S” stands for secure. With advanced SSL certificates, the browsing bar or text will be green and your company’s legally registered name will appear in the search bar. Build customer trust and improve conversion rates with an SSL certificate When visiting an SSL secured or HTTPS site, customers will automatically understand that their information will remain confidential. Having an SSL certificate will add legitimacy to your online operations. Conversion rates will improve because browsers will not show an error or warning message that would scare would-be customers away from your site. Users will have peace of mind while browsing and purchasing goods and services from your site and will never have to experience the panic of finding out their livelihood has been compromised. HTTPS is one of many factors that can influence your online visibility and Google search rankings. Without an online presence, you have no business. To extend your customer reach and build authority in your industry, contact our social media marketing experts! We can update your website with an SSL certificate for only $399.00.   Social Spice Media can take your business to the next level with a complete package of online marketing services, including search engine optimization, web site design, and social media management.