What is an SSL certificate and why do I need one?

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What is an SSL certificate?

An SSL certificate is like a secret code which ‘Encrypts’ / protects the data on your website from people trying to steal information from your visitors. By Installing an SSL certificate it’s virtually impossible for anyone to see what web pages your visitors are looking at and more importantly what passwords they use to login.

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What happens if I don’t use an SSL certificate on my website?

Your website will work as normal but anyone can read the information visitors are accessing. If your website sells products or provides a service then its very easy for a hacker to steal their password. If a hacker gets the password they could login and buy lots of things on your customers account and cause all kinds of problems. Even worse for your customer is that they probably use the same password for everything including their Amazon, Facebook, Office 365, GMail and Paypal accounts!

They definitely wouldn’t be pleased if it turns out your unsecured website was the reason they got hacked!

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Are there any other benefits for installing an SSL certificate?

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If the above was not enough for you then yes there are many other benefits:

1. Customers will feel safer using your website.

2. You will be more compliant with GDPR regulations.

3. Google will potentially list you above your competitors in search results.

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But the biggest reason you want to install an SSL Certificate is that many web browsers like Google Chrome are starting to warn visitors that the websites are unsecured if they don’t have a certificate installed. This means that visitors will see a big warning letting them know that they probably shouldn’t be using your website.

Many business owners are simply unaware of these changes, so speak to your website developers asap.

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If you want further help then feel free to give us a call for advice on 01323 287828.