SSL certificates are a guarantee of security. Any sensible domain owner understands the meaning of these words. When visiting a website, people first check whether it is properly secured rather than focusing on its content. The green padlock in the browser’s address bar inspires trust, communicating to the customer that their data is being transmitted securely. But can you fully trust every SSL certificate?
What is a self-signed certificate?
If a visitor to your site receives a warning about an “unsafe connection” or an “untrusted certificate,” they will likely leave within seconds. Your domain’s reputation can be harmed by so-called self-signed certificates. This free option allows you to issue an SSL certificate to yourself, instead of having it vetted and issued by an external certification authority. For the browser to consider the certificate on your domain as trusted and secure, its issuer must be included in a trusted database of entities that have met all the conditions required for generating an SSL certificate.
Disadvantages of a self-signed certificate
A significant problem arises if you are not in that trusted database—your customers’ browsers will display a warning about an untrusted certificate. This undermines the online relationship right from the start. No one wants to work with an “untrusted” partner, and everyone fears for the safety of their data and computer. Of course, if you implement such a certificate correctly, your data will still be encrypted. However, your site’s visitors might not possess the necessary IT knowledge. Seeing the “untrusted certificate” warning, they will feel threatened. Another challenge with this type of certificate is its correct implementation. Spare yourself the effort and provide your domain with complete security and satisfied visitors who will gladly return to your safe website.
Why shouldn’t you trust just anyone?
“Better safe than sorry,” as the old saying goes. An internet user who does not trust dubious certificates has a point. Obviously, not every holder of a self-signed certificate is out to deceive you. Security also depends on the server infrastructure, proper machine security, and factors not always under one’s control. However, the most significant disadvantage of this type of certificate is that the key securing data transmission… was generated by the website owner. This opens the door to various forms of misuse. At any time, the issuer can issue a different certificate with a different key and different values. The lack of oversight by a certification authority is not just a way to save money. Opting out of paid solutions carries risks and requires effort that’s best avoided.
A final word
To fully enjoy a secure website, choose an SSL certificate worth trusting. The convenience of purchase, implementation, and above all, the respect you’ll earn in the eyes of your customers is worth every penny. Negative PR displayed by browsers can ruin the beginnings of potentially the most valuable business relationships. A customer who sees that the “connection is secure” will appreciate the comfort you offer—comfort they need in an age of scams and uncertainty. To succeed online, you need to stand out, but it’s best to do so in a positive way. An untrusted domain will never achieve the success it could by being properly secured with an authorized SSL certificate.