The green bar or the https:// line in the address bar of your browser tells us that a website is secure. What really does it mean to be secured online? The common notion is that a Secured Socket Layer (SSL) certificate is in place.

An SSL certificate encrypts data that tells your browser connection to the company's web server is private. It prevents any intentional tampering of transmitted data and digital forgery. It is like a seal that tells your visitor that his activities on your site are free of any leak of confidential information.

Usually, it is a value add for your visitors to be engaged on your site. It guarantees somehow that your site is sensitive to your visitor's privacy. It improves the integrity of transaction online from your site, and will be a good reason to experience some more return visits. In a way, this improves the overall reputation of your site and your company.

SSL doesn't only secure the visit, but also authenticates the stay. This means you are not only sure of your information is safe, but also you have the peace of mind that you are sending information to the right server and not a dubious one. Some websites somehow mirror identities of legitimate companies, and you would be fooled to believe that you are in the right site. Not to mention, phising activities that are very rampant in the internet. An SSL certificate ensures that your are on the right location and company.

So, the next time you shall transmit information such as personal details on a feedback form, or a site that ask for confidential information, or a purchase you wish to do; check that the address bar should be color green with a padlock icon before the https:// prefix.