Make sure your site is secure - industry leading advice!
It's unfortunate, but not all websites are secure and trustworthy, make sure yours is not one of those.
An unsafe website can spread malware, steal your information, send you spam and a lot more.
If you are unsure about the security of a website have a read through these few tips, they will tell you what to look for.
1. Look for the 'S' in the address
Website addresses generally have http:// or https:// before the commonly quoted www.
The secure sites start with https:// so its the 's' that you need to look out for as these sites are encrypted, which means they are more secure.
This security is provided by an SSL certificate, which protects sensitive information that is entered into the site. Without an SSL certificate its easier for cyber criminals to access your private information and you are greatly exposed.
If you are logging into a website or entering personal details just double click in the address bar and look for the https.
2. Check the Privacy Policy
A websites privacy policy should communicate how your data is collected, used, stored and protected.
All websites should have a privacy policy as it is required by law under the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations), but that doesn't mean all websites do have one, beware!
Having a privacy policy indicates that the owner cares about complying with these laws and ensuring their website is safe for its visitors. Look for the policy, there should be a link somewhere on the site, if you can't find it ask for a copy or leave the site.
If you have any concerns read the policy before parting with your personal details.
3. Find their Contact Information
If you feel that finding a website's contact information makes that site seem more trustworthy, you aren't alone. Many visitors (around 44%) will leave a website if they can't find a telephone number and other contact details.
Don't be too worried if you don't see an email address as these are often hidden behind a contact form, this is due to the high level of spammers that will jump on openly displayed email address.
Ideally on a site you should be able to see a telephone number, a physical address, links to social media accounts and a returns policy if they sell online.
These items don't mean that the site is secure but it does indicate that there is some way to reach out to the company if you need assistance.
All websites from Websites by Jane are secured, with the https:// and SSL certificate and include a standard privacy policy page, with a link in the footer. The privacy policy can be edited by yourself if it doesn't quite cover your particular needs, just ask for a copy to be sent over.
Remember, a cheap website doesn't mean a cheap web design service!
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