Google has begun an initiative to further secure web browsing by strongly encouraging all websites to move from HTTP to HTTPS. Beginning in October 2017, Chrome will show a “Not Secure” warning in two additional situations: when users enter data on an HTTP page (such as a search bar), and on all HTTP pages visited in Incognito mode.
How will this affect me long term?
Long term all HTTP sites may need to support HTTPS in Google Chrome. Currently, Google is giving us time to make the move by displaying a “Not Secure” warning only when users enter data of any kind on an HTTP page. Eventually, Google plans to label ALL HTTP pages as “Not Secure,” although the exact date for when this will happen has not been decided.
What is GTxcel doing in response to this internet change?
GTxcel will now offer publishers the option to upgrade to HTTPS. We will purchase SSL certificates for any publisher who is interested in updating their publication. We will maintain all certs and will make necessary software/hardware updates to our systems to ensure a smooth transition. The cost to update to HTTPS is one hour of professional service annually.
What are the action steps I need to take to get my site to HTTPS?
Please click here and let us know if you want to opt in or out.
What happens if I do not want to opt in?
If you do not opt in, once Google institutes the change, your end users using Google Chrome will see a message that states the publication is not secure when they enter data on the search menu or if they are using an incognito browser. Google does plan to add additional warnings in the future but we do not have specifics as to what they would look like or how soon that would happen.
To get the full statement from Google on their initiative, feel free to read their blog: https://blog.chromium.org/2017/04/next-steps-toward-more-connection.html