SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its successor TLS (Transport Layer Security) are cryptographic protocols that are used to secure communications between a client and server over the internet. They help to establish a secure and encrypted connection between the user’s web browser and the e-commerce website, protecting sensitive information that is transmitted over this connection.
The following are some ways SSL/TLS can be used to protect e-commerce sites:
1. SSL/TLS encryption: SSL/TLS encrypts all data transmitted between the user’s browser and the e-commerce website. This means that even if a third party intercepts the communication, they will not be able to understand the data being transmitted.
1. Authentication: SSL/TLS helps to authenticate the e-commerce website by verifying its identity through a digital certificate. The digital certificate is issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) and contains information that identifies the website’s owner and domain name.
1. Configuring HTTPS: HTTPS is a protocol that uses SSL/TLS to secure HTTP traffic. HTTPS should be used for all pages on e-commerce sites that require the user to enter sensitive information such as customer accounts, credit card details, and billing information.
1. PCI-DSS compliance: The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) requires e-commerce sites to use SSL/TLS encryption when processing credit card transactions. Failure to comply with the standard can result in fines and legal action.
1. Protecting against man-in-the-middle attacks: SSL/TLS helps to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks where a third party tries to intercept the communication between the user and the e-commerce website to steal sensitive information.
Overall, SSL/TLS is crucial for protecting e-commerce sites as it helps to establish a secure connection between users and the site, keeping sensitive information confidential and protecting against malicious attacks.
