Why Google has said you need HTTPS for your website

By HGB , Sep 21 2018

Google is rolling out some changes that will affect all websites, including yours. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your website secure.

What’s happening?
Google is looking to improve the security of the internet by making all sites use HTTPS instead of HTTP.

Um, what does that mean?

In a nutshell, the “S” stands for secure. HTTP and HTTPS protocols both fulfill the same basic function to transfer data over the web. Traffic over HTTPS is encrypted, which will make it much harder for anyone to monitor, steal, sniff, alter, or otherwise mess with your data.

Can you give me an analogy?

HTTP is talking to your friend in the middle of a party.

HTTPS is you and your friend talking alone in a soundproof room.

Ok, got it. So what’s Google doing again?

Up until now HTTPS has been required for all sites that accept credit card details, or deal with financial information – like internet banking. But starting from next month Google have announced that they will show “NOT SECURE” warnings on all sites that ask users to fill in any form, unless the site is using HTTPS.  So, every site that has a contact form now needs to use HTTPS.

And what does it mean for my site?

We can help switch you over to HTTPS, we just need your approval. At HGB, we offer all our clients a free SSL certificate, instead
of needing to pay for one (an SSL certificate is needed to have your site use HTTPS). The only cost you need to cover is the time for setting up the certificate and changing your site over to HTTPS.

Need a hand switching your website over? Contact our helpful team today to find out how we can keep you secure.