With the threat of identity theft on the rise, it is vital for webmasters to understand the importance of valid SSL encryption. A majority of major organizations now use SSL (Secure Socket Layer) to secure their customer information online. The SSL/TLS protocol provides end-to-end secure socket layer security, which makes it impossible for an intruder to access any confidential information on a website, without the client’s private key. SSL certificates are issued with a digital signature by trusted third-party organizations that ensure the authenticity of a site’s messages and data.
A certificate, also called SSL certificate or IP certificate, is a short form for Server Name Indication Protocol. The most commonly used protocol is the IP-based Cryptographic algorithm, which stores and verifying information that identify a site’s identity. Every time you visit a site, the browser sends back to the internet (through your ISP) the information that it decodes. At this point, the server (which is acting as the information delivery interface) encrypts the received data with a ‘secret’ algorithm. After making the ‘secret’ algorithm, the transmitted information is protected behind a layer of encryption known as an SSL certificate.
A visitor to a web site can trust a website if it shows them a valid SSL certificate. This shows that the site has been accredited by an independent third party (the organization that creates and implements the SSL/TLS protocol) as having the requisite security and privacy protection. Certificate authorities (such as Verisign and GoDaddy) issue SSL certificates. The certificates guarantee the authenticity and identity of a site. Without one, a visitor cannot access and view a site’s information or content.
An SSL certificate ensures that your privacy and other personal information are encrypted at rest so that anyone trying to obtain it can’t read it. It also proves that the site has been authorized by a trusted third party (the organization that implements the SSL/TLS protocol). Without one, a visitor can’t verify that you are telling the truth about who you are and what you have to say. If you are not encrypting your personal information with a valid SSL encryption algorithm, your visitors will not be able to read any information you have provided on the site.
There are a few things you should look for in a valid SSL certificate. The first thing to look for is whether the certificate is issued by an independent third party – which means it has not been compromised or modified in any way. Look also for the name of the CA (certificate authority) or the issuing company. These companies issue certificates for a fee to ensure that they are only issuing digital certificates for sites that really do belong to them. If you find a site that does not have a valid SSL certificate, you should avoid using it or stay away from it entirely. In fact, you should not even give it a second thought if you are buying any kind of information from it.
In addition, you should also be careful about the type of information it is asking for. Check the “scope” field and see what kinds of information it wants. Is it just the name of your company or is it requesting more information such as an email address or mailing address? Is there a cost associated with getting this information, and does it come for free? A website that tries to charge you for information on you is definitely not one you want to work with.
You should also avoid websites that ask for your banking or credit card information. Some hackers can gain access to these types of accounts and use them to make purchases online. It would be in your best interest to prevent anyone from gaining unauthorized access to your accounts. This can be accomplished by making sure the website does not make this request. If you are shopping online and a site asks for it, simply decline to give it to them. This is a simple thing to do, but many people don’t always take it seriously.
If you’ve found websites that are trying to get you to hand over your personal information by requiring a SSL certificate, don’t be alarmed. These sites are only trying to make themselves more secure by asking for it. There is no need to provide them any information that can possibly be used against you. Most certificates these days are digitally signed, ensuring that they are valid and can be trusted. Stick to sites that are well-known and reputable and you’ll find the process of getting a certificate a lot easier.