It appears that the hype around HTTPS intensified in August 2014, when Google announced that this protocol would be a ranking factor. Many assumed that with this move, Google tried to persuade website owners to transfer their sites there. Why did Google want it so bad? Is HTTPS really worth it?
HTTPS and Google position
Coming back to the ranking factor: when determining the ranking of websites, Google algorithms take around 200 factors into account. Since August 2014, the HTTPS has been among such factors. Google wants Internet sites to be properly secured. One could say that those which use encrypted means of protection are somewhat “rewarded.” Although it does not mean that specific sites will suddenly jump to “top three,” it can still have a positive effect on the search result position.
Not only ranking
Currently, we are hearing more and more about hackers’ attacks, breaking into accounts of large institutions, and data theft. This is because many owners of websites do not provide sufficient care for the safety of transfer and storage of data. Meanwhile, using the HTTPS protocol prevents hackers from accessing and intercepting the content being transferred. That is why sites which are required to provide sensitive data and make payments for purchases should be equipped with HTTPS.
Do you use HTTP? You will receive a message with a warning
At the start of 2017, two most popular web browsers — Chrome and Firefox — introduced a warning system for HTTP users, which generates messages informing about an attempt to transfer data in an unsecured manner. Such message appears e.g. when logging in, registering, or making a payment. It is also important information for owners of on-line stores or other platforms which have been established for financial gain — if a visitor receives such a message while shopping, they may resign from the purchase or even from visiting the same site ever again.
HTTPS is a more and more popular protocol used for encrypting websites involving sensitive data and payments. It provides improved confidentiality of data, reliability (you can determine whether a website is genuine or false), allows obtaining a better position in search results, and transparency. It is worth using in order to ensure safety of (potential) customers.