Secure/Unsecure Websites
Secure Websites
- Secure websites are ones that begin with “https://”
- The ‘s’ stands for secure – it represents a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificate.
- This means that the information you enter on this website will be encrypted (so no one can see something like your credit card information).
- Has a lock icon to the left of it. Please reference the example below:
https://www.website.com
Unsecure Websites
- Unsecure websites are ones that begin with “http://”
- Unlike secure websites, these websites do not have a SSL certificate.
- This means that the information you enter on this website will NOT be encrypted.
- Unsecure websites do not automatically mean they are malicious; just be careful when browsing and avoid entering sensitive information.
- Has an exclamation mark to the left of it. Please reference the example below:
http://www.website.com
Keeping Safe From Pop-Ups
When browsing on websites, sometimes pop-ups will pop onto your screen and will try to get you to click on them. Most of the time, they are ads, but some can be dangerous.
- Avoid clicking on any part of the pop-up
- If a pop-up looks too good to be true, it probably is
- Some pop-ups may try to scare you
- Pop-ups are designed to catch your attention so you’ll click them
- If you accidentally click a pop-up, close it and don’t give any personal information
Redirection Links
Sometimes links can redirect you to unsafe websites, most commonly those in phishing emails. Before clicking on a link, double-check where it is trying to take you.
- Links or buttons may lie about where they are trying to lead you
- They can redirect you to unsafe, dangerous, and malicious websites
- Hover over a link with your cursor to preview the URL, showing where it wants to take you, which usually appears in the bottom left of your browser/email window