subject: The Basics Of Ssl Certificates [print this page] Sending sensitive information across the Internet can sometimes result in a nagging worry that the information is not safe. However, there are many technologies being used by various websites to ensure all information gathered is secure. One such technology is Secure Socket Layer (SSL) Certificates.
SSL Certificates identify a website as secure. SSL creates a connection between a user and a website, encrypting any private information transmitted between the two. This prevents the data from being tampered with by unwanted third parties. Not every website has an SSL Certificate, nor does every site have to have one. But if there is any site dealing with any sort of transfer of personal or otherwise sensitive information, it's important for them to have SSL. Otherwise, it would be possible for any data sent to potentially be seen by third parties.
For a user, there are a few different ways to know if a website is secure. One is to check the URL; a secure website will start with https:// (as opposed to http://). Additionally, most browsers will include a padlock icon, or some other indication, somewhere on the page to show the site's security. However, because some people aren't aware of those icons or don't know what they mean, anyone running a site using SSL should have clear and prominent privacy policies and security notices.
If a potential customer doesn't feel secure using a website or sending personal information, they are likely to take their business elsewhere. Even if all the information is secure, if the user isn't aware of that fact and they don't fully trust the website, it could mean less revenue for the business.
In order to make sure people feel secure on a website, companies can include a site seal which indicates the site has a certificate. While it can be displayed on each page, it is especially important to include it on any page dealing with personal information, credit card numbers, or anything else a user may not want others to see. The seal can be obtained from Certificate Authorities (CAs) which issue SSL Certificates.
While the Internet can be an intimidating place, there's no reason to not feel completely secure when buying online, dealing with financial information, or otherwise using the conveniences the World Wide Web brings. If running an online business, it's important to make sure all websites are secure and that customers know it's secure. And as a user, it's important to look for indications of a site's security before sending any sort of personal information.
