What Is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate encrypts data transferred between your website and its visitors. This ensures sensitive information, like donation details or volunteer sign-ups, remains private.
Why Your Nonprofit Needs SSL
Having an SSL certificate:
- Builds trust with visitors (indicated by the padlock icon in the browser).
- Improves your website’s search engine rankings.
- Protects against cyber threats, such as data interception.
How to Check Your SSL Certificate
- Look for a padlock icon next to your website URL.
- Visit an SSL checker tool online to verify expiration dates.
- Confirm your hosting provider offers automatic SSL renewal.
Steps to Secure Your Website with SSL:
- If you don’t have SSL, contact your hosting provider to install one.
- Schedule alerts to renew SSL before expiration.
- Regularly test your website for secure connections.
SSL certificates are a small investment with a significant impact on your nonprofit’s credibility and security
