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Google gives SSL certificates their proper due
Despite the clear need for ample website security solutions, not all organizations do their part to protect sensitive transactions that are processed on their webpages. In many instances, a lack of comprehensive cybersecurity resources can be chalked up to negligence rather than ignorance. Business leaders realize the presence of legitimate threats, but fail to take the proper steps to mitigate risk because they don't see the tangible ROI of such a move. When even government and industry regulations aren't enough to convince organizations to shore up their website security, what could possibly make them budge? The answer may be a major change in the site rankings system used by Google.
The search engine giant recently announced that it was shaking up its algorithms, adding new criteria for determining which sites appear on a user's results page. Specifically, webpages with high-quality encryption in place will be given a nudge over those that don't. Although Google stressed that other factors such as page content would still be heavily weighted, its support of SSL certificates demonstrates how important these security solutions have become.
From Google's perspective, it makes perfect sense to try and encourage website owners to protect visitors with encryption. The company's business built upon its ability to connect individuals with not only relevant content, but reliable, high-quality sites as well. If users begin to doubt the integrity of sites showing up on their search engine results page, that could spell trouble for Google.
Security's role in site value
As Search Engine Land's Matt McGee explained, this change has caused some degree of hand-wringing among SEO experts who don't believe that security should be a factor in determining a webpage's ranking. This reflects a myopic view of SEO principles, however. While some individuals may look at Google's algorithms as a means to an end in reaching more visitors, the foundation of SEO is to determine the overall value of a website. Cybersecurity is absolutely critical in that regard, and Google is rightfully doing its part to encourage webpage owners to shore up their own tools.
Staying abreast of SSL best practices
Google has also offered organizations a list of tips and best practices so everyone can get up to speed with SSL use without having to deal with any common headaches or pitfalls. For instance, the company suggests that businesses use 2048-bit key SSL certificates to decrease the likelihood of cybercriminals cracking data packet encryption, providing site visitors with better overall protection. Google also suggested that organizations look over the various strengths of single, multi-domain and wildcard SSL certificates to determine which one best meets their needs.
Google went one step further for website owners who already use some form of transport layer security. It offered a link to a site that helps businesses determine their website protection in relation to the rest of the Internet. By simply entering their domain name, organizations can receive a letter grade highlighting their level of webpage security. That could serve as a wakeup call for website operators who mistakenly believe they have done everything they can to safeguard sensitive information and transactions. Recognizing that a problem exists, however, is the first step to correcting it. By adhering to SSL best practices, businesses can rest easy knowing that their site visitors will be well protected.
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