As the number of web channels and web users continues to grow, the need for security of information is more than ever before. The constant exchange of information across the web involves a lot of sensitive data from users and businesses like passwords, credit card or bank details, and other personal information which could be used against them for malicious activities. After several incidents on misuse of user information online, internet technology giants like Google have taken serious steps to address this and make provisions for a safer web environment.
Security transparency
In 2016, Google announced its policy of making security information transparent to all users. Later in 2018, this was passed as a mandate, wherein every website running on Chrome browser will need to have an SSL security certification. SSL or Security Socket Layer is a measure of security of a website and is indicated by an ‘S’ in the pretext to a site URL as in, ‘https.’ Without such certification, the respective website will not be considered ‘safe’ for the user to browse and will not be validated by Chrome. This can eventually affect the search rankings of the site as well. With such security certificate transparency, Google can easily monitor and audit domains and ensure the information security of site users.
What is SSL?
The SSL certification indicates that a particular website or a webpage is safe for the user to browse, without compromising on the information that they send through that URL. It ensures complete privacy of the user’s sensitive data. Websites can use different types of SSL certificates, based on their domains and security needs. Each certificate has its warranty limits and options for encryptions. SSL certificates are easy to install, and most web hosting services, including VPS hosting, includes SSL integration as a part of their service plan.
What does it do?
Whenever any information is sent across the web, it passes through a network of computer servers, before reaching the main web server. This makes the information accessible to any of these servers in transit. In case of any sensitive information, it can be misused and pose a threat to the user. With SSL, the information is encrypted while it routes through the web network and can only be accessed by the destination server.
SSL is a digital certificate that ensures a secure connection between a web user and the web server. When integrated with HTTP, it initiates a padlock-like system on the URL protocol. It then allows the site to send the necessary information to the web server in an encrypted format, thus preventing unauthorized access to the server. The data is then decoded on the server end using a key, which could range from 40 bit to 356 bit. The bit strength determines the level of security of the key. The more the bits, the more complex and safer the key.
Summing up…
Security of user information is of utmost priority for any site owner. With such security certifications and other necessary measures, you can ensure that both your website and its users can maintain the privacy and safety of their data.
