A tutorial on SSL Encryption and how it keeps you safe online

Hi everyone,

If you shop or sell online, you've probably heard a little bit about SSL or Secure Sockets Layer, or maybe the name sounds a little familiar. We would like to teach you a bit about what it is and how it can make online shopping and selling a much safer and secure activity.

How it works

There are a few steps involved in the process, but you won't even know they're happening:

1. First, the SSL Certificate encrypts sensitive personal and financial information during online transactions.

2. Secondly, every SSL Certificate includes authenticated details on the certificate owner.

3. And lastly, a "Certificate Authority" validates the certificate owner's identity when the certificate is issued.

Who needs SSL encryption?

Lots of people do, in fact every online business or organization should take advantage of this great tool! If you do any of the following, you need SSL encryption right away:

• You have an online store and accept credit card payments.
• You allow people to login or sign up on your site.
• You process sensitive personal and financial information.
• You must comply with privacy and security requirements.
• You value privacy and want others to see you as credible and trust-worthy.

How does Encryption and Authentication work?

Please visit the VeriSign website for more information on encryption and authentication.

So why does this all matter?

In as few words as possible, it matters because the privacy of your personal and financial details matters... a lot. Without efficient privacy and security measures and general common sense, the online world would be a pond full of sitting ducks for those pesky online troublemakers, like fraudsters and hackers.

Lastly, did you know that we use SSL encryption?

Of course we do! You can see the logo at the bottom right-hand corner of our website. You can even click on it to read some details on the status of our certificate. We wouldn't be able to operate in good conscience without VeriSign's SSL Encryption. Every time you do a transaction online through AlertPay, you can breathe easy knowing that your information is protected by us and VeriSign.

For more information on SSL Encryption, please visit the VeriSign website.

Thanks for choosing AlertPay!