If a website is asking it's users to securely log in and provide personal details or sensitive data such as financial records, it is essential that any online interactions are kept secure and private.
In order to keep the data secure between a user and a website, SSL certificates are used to provide trust to the user, create a secure and encrypted connection between the user and the website, confirm the ownership of the website and stop third parties from the viewing the data which is sent between the user and the website.
Modern web browsers now indicate to users when a website does not have a SSL certificate installed or uses a HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) connection by showing a Not Secure tag within the URL address bar. This can lead to less users using the website as any data or information which is shared, is not secured with a SSL certificate.
There are several types of SSL certificate which can be used with the cost ranging from free to hundreds of pounds, depending on the level of security which is required. Once obtained and installed on a website, the website will be able to to provide a HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure) or secure connection to it's users.