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SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, which is a protocol or command developed to transmit data privately over the Internet. SSL uses encryption to ensure confidential information is read by only the intended parties such as your credit card number when you make a purchase online.
Features
SSL employs a cryptographic system that uses two keys to encrypt data. One key is a public key known to everyone. The second key is a private key known only to the recipient of that message.
Internet
Many browsers including Firefox, Internet Explorer, Opera and Safari support SSL, as do numerous individual websites.
Verification
Customers who are shopping online and want to verify their transactions are secured will see two signs that ensure their safety. The first indication is a change of the URL or Web address prefix from http to https. The second indication can be found in the corner of a browser where a small closed padlock icon will be present.
Certificates
Businesses obtain their certificates through their Web host or directly by the company offering this service. GoDaddy, Verisign, Comodo, Digicert and Thawte are the top five SSL certificate providers.
Warning
Never complete a transaction online if an SSL certificate isn't present. Contact the company for guidance if you believe there is a mistake.
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