HTTPS, or Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, is the secure version of HTTP, the protocol that facilitates data transfer across the web using a client to server model. HTTPS employs Transport Layer Security (TLS), formerly known as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), to encrypt all data exchanged between the browser and server. This encryption ensures data confidentiality, enabling the secure transmission of sensitive information and personal details. A secure connection is established only after verifying trust between the browser and server, a critical aspect underscored by the implementation of HTTP Transport (STS), policy enforcing secure connections exclusively.
Avoid a HTTP website scam by just looking for some simple signs:
Don't go to a HTTP:// website — this means that the target website isn't secure and could be fraudulent.
Always avoid HTTP:// online stores — this is especially true when entering personal information and credit/debit card information as the website is not secure and neither is your information.
Sites with the HTTP:// protocol could be phishing websites.
Listen to browsers that strictly employ HSTS as they will show a warning sign of no available secure connection with the target website — this is normally a good sign that the website in question is dodgy.
Stick to HTTPS:// — Stick to being happy!