Google Warns: Secure Your Site By October or Else…
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Google Warns: Secure Your Site By October or Else…
Filed Under: New Comments: 62
If you don’t want the Chrome browser scaring your visitors away, here’s what you need to know…
- Pages with forms should start with HTTPS: This encrypts data submitted through your website's forms.
- Google Chrome's "NOT SECURE" message: Starting October 2017, users on unencrypted sites will see this warning. Even email opt-in forms are affected!
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help Let me be clear: if tech stuff intimidates you, reach out to your host. They might have better suggestions. This post is more about a heads-up than a tutorial. Your hosting will largely determine your steps.
Did You Receive This Email? If you have a Google Webmaster account and your site isn’t secure, you might have received an email listing pages that will show the "NOT SECURE" warning in October.
How to Get Free Encryption
- AutoSSL: Many high-end hosting plans offer free AutoSSL. Check with your host if they have this feature.
- Real Simple SSL WordPress Plugin: I used this plugin to redirect pages from HTTP to HTTPS in just minutes.
- .htaccess File: Alternatively, you can manually set up redirects using your .htaccess file; contact your host for assistance.
- Validation: Verify your SSL certificate here.
If Your Host Doesn’t Have AutoSSL Consider Let’s Encrypt, a free option supported by some hosts (check the list).
Important Note: Always backup your site and database before making changes.
Let’s Encrypt vs. Paid SSL Certificates Hosting companies often push paid certificates, but Let’s Encrypt is gaining traction due to its free nature. It's a matter of money and support, ultimately.
AutoSSL and Let’s Encrypt are becoming more widely available.