Google has been trying to get sites to switch over to HTTPS for some time and now the search giant has started to mark HTTP sites as Not Secure in their Chrome browser.
The majority of sites, ourselves included, have made the switch to HTTPS, although some big sites are still using HTTP.
Why HTTPS is Important
HTTPS, which stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure, is an extension of HTTP. It is used for secure communication over a computer network and is widely used on the Internet. HTTPS encrypts the data sent between your browser and the website you are visiting, ensuring that sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal details are protected from eavesdroppers and hackers.
The importance of HTTPS cannot be overstated. Not only does it provide a secure connection, but it also builds trust with users. When visitors see the padlock icon in their browser’s address bar, they are more likely to feel confident that their data is safe. This is particularly crucial for e-commerce sites, online banking, and any platform that handles personal information.
Current Adoption Rates and Challenges
According to a recent report by the BBC, around twenty percent of the world’s top five hundred websites are still using HTTP. This includes well-known sites like the Daily Mail, Argos, and more. The reluctance to switch to HTTPS can be attributed to several factors, including the cost of obtaining an SSL certificate, the complexity of implementing HTTPS, and the potential for initial disruptions in website functionality.
However, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Google has been incentivizing the switch to HTTPS by giving secure sites a slight boost in search rankings. Additionally, browsers like Chrome and Firefox have started to mark HTTP sites as “Not Secure,” which can deter users from visiting these sites.
The change comes as Google has released its new Chrome 68 software, which will now highlight non-secure sites to let users know. This move is part of Google’s broader effort to make the web a safer place for everyone. By marking HTTP sites as “Not Secure,” Google aims to encourage more website owners to make the switch to HTTPS.
Moreover, the transition to HTTPS is becoming easier and more affordable. Services like Let’s Encrypt offer free SSL certificates, and many web hosting providers now include SSL certificates as part of their hosting packages. These developments are making it more accessible for smaller websites and blogs to adopt HTTPS.
Real-World Examples and Future Trends
Several high-profile websites have already made the switch to HTTPS. For instance, Wikipedia, one of the most visited websites globally, transitioned to HTTPS in 2015. The move was part of their commitment to user privacy and data security. Similarly, major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay have long used HTTPS to protect their customers’ information.
Looking ahead, the trend towards HTTPS is expected to continue. As more users become aware of the importance of secure connections, the pressure on website owners to adopt HTTPS will only increase. Additionally, future browser updates are likely to introduce even stricter measures for non-secure sites, further incentivizing the switch.
The push for HTTPS is a positive step towards a more secure and trustworthy internet. While some challenges remain, the benefits of adopting HTTPS are clear. As Google and other tech giants continue to prioritize security, it is only a matter of time before HTTPS becomes the standard for all websites.
Source BBC
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