Select Page

If you haven’t switched your site over to https, you’re going to want to start.

In October, Google Chrome started sending out security warnings that flag non-https sites, if the site has a text input field but it isn’t delivered over a secure network. What does this mean? Basically, a “Not Secure” warning will be displayed on any web page with a form field, including newsletter signup forms or search bars.

When you load a website over HTTP, someone else on the network can look at or modify the site before it gets to you. And currently, the search engine indicates that HTTPS – with an “s” on the end — connections are secure with a “green lock” icon. However, Google will now flag a non-https site unsafe and the ‘lock’ will be a “red lock” icon indicating the site is not secure.

Not utilizing HTTPS by default could mean higher website bounce rates, decreased website traffic and ultimately lost leads and conversions. Lastly, be aware that phishers might use free SSL certificates so as to appear legitimate. They also might hijack a site that already has SSL in place.

Not prepared or familiar with this technology?

  • The first step is to buy the right SSL Certificate for your website. Without getting too technical, the way that an SSL certificate works is that it creates an encrypted, impenetrable link between the browser window and the web server.
    • The entry-level SSLs are Domain SSLs.
    • Organization SSLs require a higher degree of verification, which includes checking company ownership
    • Extended Validation SSLs, which allow you to use a “green browser” bar
  • Once you’ve purchased your SSL Certificate, you’ll need to approve it.
  • Next, run a full back-up of all of your website files.
  • Update all of the internal links in your website, by changing any links that point to HTTP pages inside your site to HTTPS.
  • All of the links pointing to your site from your social media accounts and listings in authority directories need to be updated.
  • Create a 301 redirect – this is a method redirecting traffic permanently from one web page (URL) to another.
  • Update any other tools and transactional emails, such as email marketing, marketing automation and landing page generators.
  • And lastly, update your Google Analytics and Search Console accounts.

Let Kalop Marketing help you ensure that your site is migrated safely, securely and with the minimum of impact. Contact us today to learn more.