HTTPS is Critical for Chambers

image of secure computer You’ve probably noticed that certain website have https:// in their URL while others don’t (they simply have http://). Does HTTPS really matter for chambers? The answer is absolutely YES.

HTTPS vs. HTTP

We won’t get into the nitty-gritty of every difference, but it’s easy to keep them straight by telling yourself that the S in https stands for Secure. It’s a secure layer that encrypts everything.

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If you’re using a website that doesn’t have that all-important S, the communications are (<change to: your website is(??)) in plain text. This means a hacker can see everything – credit card numbers, passwords, social security data, etc. Sites that are secure actually encrypt data. So if a hacker gets in, they still won’t be able to access any data.

Websites should be protected with HTTPS, even if they don’t handle sensitive communications. Hackers can gain information by scanning aggregate behaviors of users before quickly dismissing your site as too small to be a target. Bear in mind that most interceptions are done electronically without a human deciding who is attacked.

Why does having an HTTPS url matter to a chamber?

It’s a requirement for many browser features.
Your site visitors' information is encrypted, and therefore more secure.
Many users are more comfortable making purchases and sharing their personal information online when visiting secured sites.
Google Chrome displays warnings anytime that a user visits a site that is not using HTTPS. Therefore, if your site is not secured, your site visitors will get a warning message anytime they access your site.
Google ranks HTTPS sites more favorably. Converting your site to HTTPS will, therefore, improve your Search Engine Optimization (SEO).
HTTPS is the future of the internet
You owe it to your members to maintain data integrity and strong security for personal information.

So how do you get that S in your chamber’s URL? You need an SSL certificate.

An SSL certificate works to create an encrypted connection between your visitor’s browser and the server.

As explained by GoDaddy.com, think of an SSL certificate as a giant windshield for when you drive on the information super-highway. You wouldn’t head out on your local freeway — especially at night in a rural area — without something between you and all the bugs.

In much the same way, an SSL certificate protects your site — and its visitors — from many digital bugs, worms, and other nasty web creatures.

There are many providers of SSL certificates. ChamberMaster can help our customers obtain and enable SSL certificates. Simply each out to our support department for help. Or view our SSL FAQs.

Sources: GoDaddy, Wix, Google, Bright Local