SSL certificates are a key security measure in many websites as they show users your website is one to trust. This is done by encrypting users’ personal data so that it is unreadable by anyone besides the intended party.
Browsers have recently begun warning users that a website does not contain an SSL certificate, even on websites with a simple login form, in a bid to help prevent private details being stolen. Evidence that an SSL certificate is in place can be found in the browser address bar, typically displayed in the form of a padlock.
Why is SSL So Important?
Many website owners are unaware as to why an SSL certificate is so important and do not see the point in spending money on one. However, search engines such as Google have started penalising unsecure websites, whilst web browsers are also making it hard for users to gain access to them by producing warning signs stating that a website is untrustworthy.
This has without a doubt caused users to move to alternative websites that hold a certificate as they do not want to risk placing their personal information such as addresses and card details into a website that may be deemed as a risk.
Warning Signs
Browsers have now created warning signs that tell users a website is untrustworthy.
The warning signs shown all vary in wording and functionality, although some are as basic as placing an open padlock with an red ‘x’ overlapping in the address bar. Others have a clear warning explaining why a website should not be trusted, whilst a handful do not give users the option to continue and, as an alternative, they have to go through advanced settings to finally get into the website.
This will only cause negative effects on your user experience as people will find it too much of a hassle having to complete steps in order to gain access and some may feel a sense of doubt if search engines are questioning if they should be using your website. Therefore, visits will start to deteriorate and income may be lost.
Search Engine Punishment
Search engines crawl websites multiple times a day to determine which are of highest quality out of the bunch. From this, they push those well structured, informative websites to the top of the rankings, meaning they can be easily found on Google, for example.
Search engines have recently emphasised their focus on SSL certificates, especially on websites that hold a login functionality for users to decide where they should position each website.
If your website does not hold an SSL certificate, search engines could potentially push secure websites above yours, meaning users have to scroll through multiple pages in order to finally find your website. No one is, therefore, seeing what you have to offer and will not land on your website or purchase any of your services or products.
What Can You Do to Avoid This?
In order to ensure this doesn’t happen to you, it is vital that you install an SSL certificate. Ballyhoo offer SSL certificate services to ensure your website has the highest level of security. To find out more, get in touch by calling 0121 295 5352, email to [email protected] or via the contact form on our contact page.
