At VIPMISSION, we offer a range of free and paid products to ensure your member/donor’s information is protected when interacting with your website.
One way, and a pretty important way to protect their data is by installing an SSL certificate. SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer and is used to encrypt the connection between web browsers and your website.
Most plugins, tools, even Google require this for all websites!
In other words, SSL certificates make data transferred over your website totally unreadable to third parties. An example is when someone donates or purchases from your website. The SSL certificate will encrypt their credit card details, keeping them secret from any prying eyes who might want to get hold of them.
Credit cards, personal details and private information can all be encrypted simply by installing an SSL certificate on your website.
Are there FREE SSL Certificates?
Yes! VIP Mission provide a free SSL certificate with your hosting package. However, when are free SSL Certificates Suitable?
While it may sound like not having an SSL certificate can be the end of the world, there are some free alternatives SSL certificates that are perfect for blogs and small websites that don’t accept payments online.
Not only can SSL certificates improve your Search Engine Optimisation (aka, Google), installing an SSL certificate will put your mind at ease, and leave your clientele satisfied that you have their security in mind.
Our free AutoSSL certificates are encrypted the exact same way, 256-bit encryption, as all “paid” SSL certificates, however, they don’t provide you with the same level of warranty, “trust” branding and verification that you get with a paid SSL certificate service. These are important things to consider as a charity or church.
When do I need to purchase an SSL Certificate?
Not having a warranty-covered SSL certificate can be detrimental to the reputation of your organisation and may even mean you’re financially liable if your customers’ data is stolen. Therefore, if you sell a lot of goods, receive donations, gather a lot of personal information (which not-for-profits and values-based businesses often do) from your website, it’s recommended that you purchase a premium SSL certificate.
Since our paid certificates come with a warranty of up to $1,500,000 per transaction, your members and donors will feel safer when checking out and more inclined to support your organisation in the future, with the knowledge that every transaction is properly secured and protected.
Bravo! Where to Now?
By now it is safe to assume that you’ve identified what type of website you run and can make the best decision according to this information. If you’re a small-time blogger who enjoys posting about your latest recipes or sharing your experience about a new place you’ve travelled to, then the free AutoSSL Certificate is likely the right option for you.
If you’re a savvy not-for-profit or social enterprise who provides donor experiences, or a trusted church or charity, selling online product and services on your website, then you’ll want to invest in a premium SSL certificate.
