Google Chrome has announced that starting October 2018, it will display a prominent “Not Secure” message in the browser bar. Consider this your final warning. After October 2018, Chrome and likely all other Chrome-based browsers, such as Vivaldi, will show enhanced security warnings. This change could lead to higher bounce rates and potentially lower sales and conversions on your site.
What is Chrome Changing?
Currently, Google displays a green icon to indicate that a website is secure. Google reports that because so many sites are now secure, they will start flagging insecure sites with a prominent red warning. Additionally, Chrome will stop displaying the green icon for secure websites. The decision is based on the notion that HTTPS should be the default state of a website, especially now that many websites are secure. Users should expect a site to be secure; thus, a warning is more suitable for a dangerous situation rather than a safe one.
Change Rolling Out in Two Stages
This change will roll out in two stages. The first stage begins in September 2018, marking when Chrome will stop showing a green “warning” icon for safe websites. Then, in October 2018, Chrome will begin alerting users about insecure sites with a prominent red icon.
Takeaway: Should You Convert Your Site to HTTPS?
The answer is a resounding yes; you should consider securing your website. Previously, SSL was primarily for eCommerce sites, but this is no longer the case. All websites will be affected. A red warning icon could potentially deter site visitors.
Because Chrome will show a noticeable icon, it might scare away site visitors and increase your bounce rate. More visitors may stop visiting your site upon seeing the red warning icon, impacting eCommerce and ad-driven informational sites equally.
Read more about Chrome security indicators at the official announcement.
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Images by Shutterstock, Modified by Author
Screenshots by Author, Modified by Author
