Why use HTTPS?

HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure) is the secure version of HTTP. This protocol allows data to be sent between a user’s browser and a website. Using HTTPS, websites encrypt the sent data so it can’t be read or altered during transfer. The “Secure” in HTTPS is provided by SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) encryption which makes the connection private and secure.

So, why should websites use HTTPS?

One of the main reasons for using HTTPS is to protect sensitive data from being intercepted by attackers. This is especially important for websites that handle personal info like login credentials, payment details and health records. When a user sends data through an HTTPS connection, it’s encrypted, so even if an attacker intercepts the data during transfer, they can’t read it.

HTTP sites are vulnerable to “man-in-the-middle” (MITM) attacks where attackers can intercept communication between a user and a website. They can read, modify or inject malicious content into the data being sent. With HTTPS this is not possible as the communication is encrypted so attackers can’t access or alter the data without being detected.

Example: Enter your credit card details on an online shopping site. With HTTPS, this data is encrypted and sent securely to the web server so attackers can’t steal your financial information.

Web users are aware of online security risks, and many look for signs that a website is secure before interacting with it. Most web browsers like Google Chrome and Firefox display a padlock icon in the address bar when a site is using HTTPS, which is a secure connection. HTTP sites are often flagged with warnings like “Not Secure”, which can deter users from visiting or sharing personal info.

Why Trust Matters: Trust is crucial for websites that require users to share sensitive data. If users feel their info is compromised, they will leave the site without completing transactions, resulting in lost business for website owners. HTTPS tells users their data is being handled securely.

Google and other search engines favour HTTPS websites in their rankings, so HTTPS is important for search engine optimisation (SEO). HTTPS is a ranking factor in Google’s algorithm, so websites with HTTPS will appear higher in search results than their HTTP counterparts. This increases visibility, attracts more users and ultimately improves the website.

HTTPS not only encrypts data but also ensures data integrity. This means data can’t be altered or corrupted during transfer without being detected. For example if a user is downloading a file or viewing content on an HTTPS site they can be sure what they receive is exactly what the website intended to send. This is important for essential files like software updates or confidential documents to remain unaltered.

Many modern web features and APIs require a secure context so they will only work on HTTPS websites. For example, geolocation services, push notifications and accessing user media (like microphones and cameras) require HTTPS to protect user privacy. By using HTTPS, website owners can ensure their site is compatible with new web technologies and provide a better user experience.

The move from HTTP to HTTPS has been part of a bigger movement to make the internet safer for users. Initially HTTPS was used for banking and e-commerce sites but now it’s the standard for all types of websites. This has been driven by initiatives like Let’s Encrypt, a free certificate authority that has made it possible for website owners to get SSL/TLS certificates.

As privacy concerns grow, the importance of HTTPS will only grow. Future web standards will have even stronger encryption protocols and more privacy features, so HTTPS will be an ongoing priority for website security.

HTTPS is no longer optional. It’s a must for any website that wants to protect user privacy, build trust and stay competitive. HTTPS not only protects sensitive data from being intercepted but also boosts website credibility and search engine ranking. As online threats evolve, HTTPS is a key to a safer internet. Website owners should prioritise HTTPS to protect their users and data and provide a safer and more trustworthy online experience for everyone.