Ever wondered what the tiny lock to the left of the website URL in your browser is?
If not, look to the top left of our website URL above. This little lock shows that the website is certified as being safe.
But what exactly does this lock icon mean in a digital context?
In the digital world, this lock icon is the universal symbol for the site having an SSL certificate.
What exactly is SSL?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is an important piece of technology that ensures the security and privacy of data transmitted between a user’s web browser and a website’s server. It establishes an encrypted and secure connection, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorised access or interception by malicious entities – this includes viruses, information breaches, spy wear, and those annoying (normally inappropriate) comments from ‘strangers’ (normally botts/digital robots).
When a website has an SSL certificate installed, it activates the HTTPS protocol in the URL (don’t worry, this is unnecessary jargon for now) – this indicates that the connection is secure. This is particularly important for websites that handle personal or financial information, such as login credentials, credit card details, and user profiles.
How does SSL work?
SSL encryption works by encrypting the data exchanged between the user’s browser and the server, making it unreadable to anyone trying to intercept it. It verifies the authenticity of the website by using digital certificates confirming that the website can be trusted. SSL plays a vital role in enhancing online security and user trust. It safeguards data integrity, confidentiality, and authenticity, making it an essential component of modern web communication and a key factor for websites aiming to provide a secure browsing experience for their users. Why you need SSL Data Security – Keeps data safe, including information that if breached would be against the POPI act (Protection of Personal Information Act, 2014).
Why is an SSL certificate important?
By ensuring your website has an SSL certificate, the trust and credibility of your business is accentuated. This not only shows that your site is trustworthy (not a bot), but it also helps the SEO ranking of your site (helping users find your business in searches such as Google or Yahoo).
It is vital that you have these legitimate certificates that meet security standards for browser compatibility, which helps to make sure that your website functions properly.
One last important thing to highlight:
When it comes to e-commerce and ANY online payments, having this SSL certificate is a must-have safeguard. Having SSL on your website is essential for creating a safe and reliable online presence.
