Do I need an SSL certificate for my online store?
Setting up an e-commerce site can involve a lot of new terminology and aspects you’ve never heard of before, such SSL or HTTPS. If you are new to e-commerce or to setting up a website in general, these terms can be baffling, but it is important not to ignore them. Making sure you know what the terminology means and whether it applies to your online store is crucial for internet security and the smooth functioning of your business.
What is an SSL certificate?
You’ve set up your online e-commerce site, making sure all your products are categorized and that the shopping interface looks attractive and inviting, but have you given any thought to the security of your store? An SSL certificate will ensure you customers’ credit card information is kept secure during the payment process. SSL stands for Secure Socket Layers, and is the security protocol that establishes an encrypted link between a server and a browser. It ensures that all information that passes through your site (such as financial information used for purchases) is safely and privately communicated. Your SSL certificate is sent to any browsers accessing your site, alerting the user to the fact that your site is secure. If your site is secured with an SSL certificate it is displayed in your URL bar as “https” (instead of the unsecured “http”) and marked with a small green padlock icon in most browsers.
Why do you need an SSL certificate?
If you offer online shopping and payment options, an SSL certificate lets your customers know that your site is safe to use. Many online shoppers are careful where they spend their money, as there are high risks of false and insecure sites that can steal money or confidential information from users. Protecting your customers’ sensitive and confidential information is vital to conducting good business, ensuring return customers and good service. An SSL certificate also helps safeguard your site and information from potential online threats like viruses or hackers. It acts like a firewall, protecting all the information travelling between your site and other servers and devices. Without it, you would not be able to offer reliable or effective credit card facilities on your online store, losing both credibility and customers.
Not sure how to get an SSL certificate? A merchant account provider can set your e-commerce business up with payment processing that allows your customers to use their credit cards for purchases. Using a merchant account provider for your credit card transactions generally means that they will assist you with getting an SSL certificate. Most merchant account providers supply secure encryption and an SSL certificate as part of their payment processing services. Merchant account providers offer higher levels of security for payment processing, for example with military-grade 128 bit SSL encryption, that gives customers more confidence and security when using your store. To get an SSL certificate for your e-commerce site, sign up with an accredited merchant account provider.
For more information about an SSL certificate for your online store or to sign up for a merchant account, please call (888) 924-2743 or go to Charge.com.