Google Pushes for HTTPS Requirement – Is Your Site Secure?

Google is pushing for a new site-wide HTTPS Requirement for 2018. Failure to do so will increase the likelihood of disruptions in the user experience and decrease the level of security for your site. Before you stress about the new HTTPS requirement, the following info can help you understand a little more on what that means for your website.

What does HTTPS mean?

HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure) & HTTP is thought of as a language for passing information between web servers and clients. HTTPS is a secure connection. HTTP is not secure. The unsecure HTTP connection potentially allows unauthorized parties the ability to observe the conversation between your computing device and the site. This typically should not matter. However, it does matter when sensitive information is being entered, such as a credit card number or social security number.

What does HTTPS do?

The new HTTPS requirement set by Google will help increase the safety of users. HTTPS adds an extra layer of security over the conversation between your computing device and the site. When properly configured, the HTTPS requirement guarantees three main things. For one, it provides confidentiality. The visitors connection is encrypted, obscuring URLs, cookies, and other sensitive data. It provides authenticity.  The visitor is talking to the “real” website, and not an impersonator or through a middle man. It also provides a sense of integrity. The data sent between the visitor and the website has not been tampered or modified. Unlike it’s cousin, HTTP, which can easily be monitored, modified, or impersonated.

What is Changing?

Google plans to label all HTTP pages as ‘Not secure’ in Chrome by 2018. When data is entered on these insecure sites, expanded warnings will be added before the user may proceed. These expanded warnings for HTTP sites will effectively do two things. It will negatively affect the user experience. It will also put pressure on site owners to get an SSL certificate.

Does the new HTTPS Requirement Affect SEO?

The new HTTPS requirement will positively impact a site’s performance in organic search. In fact, Google disclosed that they would reward sites using HTTPS encryption with a boost in search results. That is not to say the switch goes without costs. However, the pros of switching outweigh the cons. Overall, the HTTPS requirement increases security, includes better referral data, and creates a boost in rankings.

How do I Ensure my Site is Ready for the HTTPS Requirement?

In order to avoid disruptions in the user experience and increase security, you’ll need to purchase an SSL certificate. Talk with Bigfin to ensure you get the right type of SSL certificate for your site. There are two primary types to choose from:

1. Standard Validation SSL – Standard level. Costs about $100.
2. Extended Validation SSL – Offers the highest level of validation and costs between $100 to $500

How Can Bigfin Help?

Bigfin.com is an industry leader in mobile advertising, SEO and custom web design. We care about the success of our clients. Our comprehensive digital marketing solutions include social media management as well as content creation and PPC management. With an expertise in social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Instagram, Bigfin can help you make the most out of your search engine optimization. Looking for help boosting your social media following? Contact us online or by phone at (425) 822-8200.