When you’re browsing the Internet, much of the information transmitted is passed from computer to computer in plain text until it gets to the destination server and back to your browser. If hackers or identity thieves are using nefarious code to eavesdrop on your connection, they’ll be able to intercept and exploit that information. This could include stealing credit card numbers, social security numbers, usernames, passwords and other sensitive information.

SSL Certificates to the Rescue

SSL certificates come to the rescue in these situations: they establish an encrypted connection between a web server and your browser. When an SSL certificate is used, transmitted information becomes unreadable to everyone except for the server you are sending the information to and your browser.

In addition to encryption, SSL certificates issued by a trusted Certificate Authority can provide authentication. Along with the SSL certificate, a server certificate is provided. Visitors to a site are able to view the document, through browser tools, and ensure that the SSL certificate in use is valid and they’re not sending information to a hacker.

Be Ever Vigilant – Your Browser Will Help

Browsers give visual cues to indicate that a connection is secure, like a lock icon or a green background in the address bar. Certificate Authorities will often allow website owners to use their site seals and other logos to indicate that valid encryption is being used on a site. All of which help a website owner create a trusted environment for visitors and potential customers.

With a Great Website, Must Come Great Security

When establishing SSL for a site, White Lion recommends Certificate Authorities with a proven record of issuing trustworthy SSL certificates. The root certificates for these providers are already present in many devices and browsers. This provides better recognition for the SSL certificates used by the sites we develop, engendering trust between our clients and their visitors.