Some of you may be wondering what an SSL Certificate is and your website needs one. Yes, it’s a little pricey to have it done. I believe the cost is well worth it.

What is an SSL Certificate?

According to Google:

SSL stands for “secure sockets layer” and is a form of security for sites that handle sensitive information such as visitor’s personal information and credit card numbers. It creates a secure connection between a visitor’s web browser and the server of the company they’re interacting with.

Why Do I Need an SSL Certificate?

Again, according to Google:

The primary reason why SSL is used is to keep sensitive information sent across the Internet encrypted so that only the intended recipient can access it. … When an SSL certificate is used, the information becomes unreadable to everyone except for the server you are sending the information to.

What Does This Mean for You?

Websites without the SSL Certificate are not encrypted and are an easier target for hackers. Google is working to keep our websites secure. Part of that security is the SSL Certificate which adds the encryption needed to keep your site safer.

Visitors to websites without the certificate will see this in the address bar:

Visitors to websites with the certificate will see this in the address bar:

An SSL Certificate Builds Trust and Confidence

Visitors to your website are less likely to complete forms or provide any kind of personal information if they see that your site is “Not Secure“. Some visitors will forego clicking on your pages at all.

With website hacking at an all-time high, it’s important to make sure your site is secure and that your visitors have confidence that the information they provide is safe.

NOTE: As a matter of disclosure, Second Self Virtual Assistance owns Second Self Hosting which provides, among other services, the SSL Certificate. Please feel free to visit that website to learn more or go to your current provider.

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