What is SSL?
SSL is an acronym for Secure Sockets Layer. In some instances, it’s called the TSL (Transport Security Layer). SSL is simply a protocol that encrypts transactions between a client application (a browser) and the online store server. Simply put: SSL protects sensitive information such as credit card details—by making them private and confidential—from being stolen by malicious users over the internet.
SSL uses an encryption algorithm that ensures that each message being exchanged on the web passes an integrity test before being transmitted. If the integrity test fails—due to corruption or an unexpected alteration by malicious users—then such a transaction doesn’t proceed to a successful conclusion.
For you to enhance the security of online transactions, you should obtain an SSL certificate that’s relevant to that domain. The certificate will apply encryption algorithms for all the transactions that take place between customers and your online store.
SSL is visible to users in several ways in the website address bar:
- A lock icon in the browser bar
- The website address starting with https://
Why is SSL certificate vital for accepting payments?
As an online mercantile, it’s our primary responsibility to ensure that the information being exchanged over our online store—which you collect from your customers—is protected at all costs. Here are reasons why we should protect our customer’s sensitive information such as credit card and personal information:
1. Confidential Transactions
The primary objective of any SSL is to transmit sensitive information with an encrypted connection. Our customers must be assured that their private data such as usernames, passwords and credit card numbers are not revealed to malicious attackers while they are making online payments.
2. Customer’s Trust
The majority of online shoppers are very choosy when it comes to making online payments. Therefore, it’s our duty to convince them their privacy is guaranteed so that they trust our business and our products. An SSL-enabled online store improves customers’ trust in our business.