How to Tell if A Website is Safe

Not everything that glitters is gold, and not everything you see online is trustworthy. Before you disclose any data on the internet, it is crucial to ensure that the site is secure. Fortunately, there are a few quick checks to help you be certain. Here are tips that will help you check if a website is safe.

Check for HTTPS

Instead of “http,” a secure URL should start with “https.” The “s” in “https” means secure, indicating that the website is protected by a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificate. This shows that all communication and data between your computer and the site’s server is safe.

If you check your browser’s address bar right now, you’ll see a little padlock just before the address.

When you click on it, a notification that says “the connection to this website is secure” will show, depending on your browser. So if you are going to an online store or even an online gambling site, and entering your personal information, always check for this icon. One perfect example of this is Vegas Slots Online. The website is protected by SSL certificate and their team of professionals has compiled a list of safe online casinos that offer generous bonuses and services such as game demos, as well as comprehensive reviews and guides on playing, security, and legality.

Check the URL

A cybercriminal may use a clone of a famous website to deceive visitors into handing over their details or payment details. For instance, they can create a copy of Instagram or Facebook that appears just like a real website.

They will attempt to trick you into believing the website is real and you might input your login details. After sending the information to the criminal, the website instantly refreshes and redirects you to the actual login page. You may log on here and never know what has occurred.

To avoid this, double-check the URL for typos or minor changes from what you expect. When these false sites are created, the original URL cannot be used since it has to be unique. Instead, a similar URL is used, which typically identifies the website as a forgery.

Additionally, using password managers to remember passwords is important. Even though the appearance of a website might deceive you, the password manager will not.

Also, if you have a business, consider installing additional security features on your laptop like robust anti-virus software or BitLocker. Fortunately, we have here at TheHiu an article that details security features that can help make your computer safer.

Check for contact information

A respectable firm normally shows contact information, physical location, and any linked social media profiles. These serve as confirmation that the site is authentic. You can check those credentials to determine whether the business is who they claim to be.

Look for signs of malware

A website might be compromised with malware that infects individual devices that visit the site. This may be done with or without the knowledge of the owner. In many circumstances, cybercriminals may enter code into a website using input forms. Then the code will be executed whenever the webpage is loaded. The following are some symptoms of malware on a website:

Malvertising

This is the technique of placing dangerous code adverts so that malware is downloaded when you click on them. Some indications that an ad is malvertising include an amateurish appearance or grammar/spelling mistakes.

Pop-Ups

Pop-ups that attempt to get you to click on them usually result in an unintentional download of malware. A typical example is a notification informing you that you have won something.  Another one can alert you that your device is infected with malware and ask you to download an antivirus program that will fix it.

Search Engine Warnings

Most search engines like Google search for viruses on websites. If you get a notification that a site is insecure, take note since there is a good chance that the site contains malware.

Final thoughts

Sadly, not every site is reliable and secure, but don’t let that stop you from using the internet — just do it carefully! Simply knowing how to identify a secure website goes a long way towards protecting your sensitive information. A genuine trust seal, “https,” contact information, and the right URL are all indications that a website is secure!