Learn What Is HTTPS & Why You Need It Now!
Announcement: By the end of October ALL N8 Chiropractic Websites will be using HTTPS! Schedule a 1-on-1 to discuss!
What Does it Even Mean?
The definition of HTTPS is "Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure". The “S” stands for Secure Socket Layer. Now that you what the acronym stands for, most importantly here's why you should care.
4 Key Reasons HTTPS is Essential for Your Chiropractic Website!
1. HTTPS can boost your search ranking with Google! SEO Bonus!
Search engines like Google prefer HTTPS, which can improve your chiropractic website's search ranking.
For example, if you are going head to head with a competitor who has an http website you will most likely win in google searches. The correlation between HTTPS websites and ranking first in Google search is strong. SearchMetrics found that 45% of the top websites all use HTTPS encryption. This is up from only 12% in 2015! Another compelling data point is that Google themselves confirmed back in 2014 that websites with a strong HTTPS encryption will rank better than their HTTP counterparts. Furthermore, in 2017 (that’s now) websites not switched to HTTPS are now marked as unsafe in Google Chrome.
2. A Secure site protects the privacy of visitors on your chiropractic website
It is a common misconception that HTTPS is only necessary for sites that are handling sensitive information, such as credit cards. However, that is not the case. Varying degrees of personal information, such as browsing behaviors or identity, can be extracted from almost any interaction online. The added security protects your users from becoming subject to intruders infiltrating communications between the site and the users. A common practice is injecting malware. Again, the addition of HTTPS guards their privacy and security. By choosing a chiropractic website with HTTPS you are doing your patients a favor. They will appreciate it and Google will reward you for doing so. It's a "win" all the way around.
3. Added Security protects the integrity of your chiropractic website
You've spent time and money on your chiropractic website. You need to protect it's integrity as well. By having a secure site you are blocking it from being injected with malicious ads or spyware. If your site is attacked in this way those ads can be shown to your website visitors. In short, it can damage your good reputation. We talk about online reputation management a lot. It's a lot of hard work, but can be damaged easily. Protect against this happening!
Note: Please don’t get HTTPS confused with HIPAA compliancy.
4. "HTTPS" is the future of the internet (not just websites for chiropractors)
It's becoming evident with the various moves and updates Google has made over the course of the past years that it's only a matter of time that all websites will be required to have this level of security. It will benefit all of us...businesses and individuals alike. By having it now you are not only benefiting your business, you are showing that you are savvy and most importantly that you care about the privacy and security of your clients.
Conclusion
We understand it's not easy to be on top of all of the latest trends and updates. However, to be on top to you need to have a plan to compete in your local market. Whether you decide to move forward with a marketing plan, website or DIY we can help! If you would like to discuss your Chiropractic Website, other marketing services and/or just have some questions please schedule a 1-on-1 call with us to discuss.
Thanks!
ChiroHosting Team
