Website “not secure” warning: what it means and how to fix it
Why browsers show a “Not secure” warning on your business website, what HTTPS and SSL certificates are, and how to get rid of the warning for good.
Read →Glossary
What is HTTPS?
Also called: HTTP Secure, secure connection, padlock.
Web addresses start with either http:// or https://. The S stands for secure: the connection is encrypted, so anyone snooping on a café Wi-Fi network cannot read what is being sent, such as form details.
HTTPS needs an SSL certificate. Browsers show a padlock or similar icon for secure sites and warn visitors about insecure ones, particularly on pages with forms.
Google has used HTTPS as a small ranking signal since 2014. More importantly, it is now simply expected: a site without it looks neglected.
Why it matters for your business
Customers type their name, phone number and address into your quote form. HTTPS protects that information and avoids a browser warning that makes your business look careless or untrustworthy.
Example. Typing http://smithplumbing.co.uk should automatically redirect to https://smithplumbing.co.uk. If it does not, the site is not set up properly.
Related terms
£299to set up
£99a month
3working days to launch
You approve it before anything goes live.
Designed from scratch, every word written for you, hosting and Google setup included. Or pay £1,795 once and £49 a month with no minimum term.
Let’s get your phone ringing.
£299 setup, then £99 a month. Live in 3 working days. Tell us what your business does - we reply the same working day.