Whether you are new to eCommerce or not, you have probably heard of the term “SSL.” Otherwise known as Security Sockets Layer, SSL usually refers to websites with “HTTPS” in their URL rather than the normal “HTTP.” It is certificate encryption, a cryptography method used in the web to protect sensitive information while being transferred over the internet using a symmetric key. You’ll often find SSL on important websites like banks and government authorities.
So why do you need SSL for your eCommerce website? During the last two years, Google has emphasized the importance of SSL for all types of sites, especially for eCommerce websites, which usually ask users to give personal information. This includes crucial information like the user’s payment details and credit card number. That’s why it is highly recommended by Google for eCommerce websites to secure their transactions by using SSL certificates.
Aside from that, it protects your website and customers from attacks and breaches. Google also stated that including SSL Certification on your eCommerce website can increase your ranking on the search pages. Google even included in their statement that SSL encryption is one of their 200 SEO ranking factors. This is why the best internet marketing consultants adamantly suggest to their clients to purchase SSL for their websites.
SSL is about information security, which is a big factor if you want visitors to stay on your website and buy your products or subscribe to your service. From a customer’s standpoint, requiring them to register on your site, ask for personal details, and credit card details, is a huge risk. The best thing you can do for them is to provide them with a safe and secure experience through SSL encryption. As you see, websites without secured encryption are prone to malware attacks and security breach, and hackers are able to steal credit card information. That’s something you definitely wouldn’t want your customers to experience.
But perhaps, the best thing about SSL is it gives your customers a sense of trust. According to CreditCards.com’s survey, over 50% of credit card users refuse to buy from websites after experiencing a security breach. For such customers, SSL is like a valid seal which represents security thus instill confidence among buyers to actually make a transaction. This, in return, can increase your conversion and the number of your customers.
So the next time you build an eCommerce website, remember to purchase an SSL and install it on your website.
