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Oct 6, 2022

With regards to the security of online transactions, SSL certification, and PCI DDS, the stakes are exceptionally high for online sellers and creators, and the way to comply can be difficult. However, the experts in e-commerce at can assist. This is a comprehensive guide to internet security for content creators, explaining how you can remain in compliance while growing your online sales.

SSL is a must for Online Sellers

At the beginning of your website's URL, you will notice either an "HTTP" or "HTTPS." That final letter "s" is essential for sellers selling online, since it means your site is safe.

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is an online security method which encrypts the user's data when it travels from your website server to your user's internet browser. This form of Transport Layer Security (TLS) protects sensitive information about customers. Without SSL security, hackers can get hold of the data (like customer's credit card details shared at the checkout) and interpret it into simple text.

    What happens if your Online Store Does Not Have an SSL Certificate?

SSL certificates are necessary for online stores to operate websites, and owners of the site must renew them each year. So what happens when retailers fail to renew the SSL certificate?

  • Search Rankings: Both browsers and search engines can penalize websites in organic search with no SSL certificates, by making them appear lower in search ranking. This means your website will reach fewer potential customers. It is possible to learn more about Search engine Optimization (SEO) by taking courses within 's CreatorU.
  • Security Warnings: Your website is marked as not secure, and some browsers, such as Google Chrome will inundate potential customers with warnings against visiting your site.
  • Hacking Threats: When your clients are hacked, you could be unable to gain the trust of your community and be financially responsible.

The solution is simple. If you are a partner of an online store that is secured (like ) The platform manages SSL certificates for all page that you sell on.

In keeping SSL certificate, online platforms will help you to keep PCI conformant, which is essential for online sales.

PCI DSS Compliance and E-Commerce

PCI (Payment Card Industry) DSS are global data security standards for any online store that accepts payments. They regulate websites' security online to protect the payment information of customers. PCI standards are regularly updated to safeguard against the latest data security threats Your e-commerce website will need to be updated to meet the new PCI DSS changes as they are released.

    What Happens If Your E-Commerce Site is Not PCI In compliance?

Non-compliance in accordance with PCI DSS standards can financially destroy online sellers, especially small ones. Payment processors begin to slap the bank with massive penalty fees (up to 6 figures per month of non-compliance) and the bank will pass to your business.

It is possible to face the possibility of closing your bank account and paying higher processing fees charged by payment processors. Even modest non-compliance fees (starting with $5k per month) can quickly bankrupt a small business.

Making sure you are in compliance with the latest online security standards can be stressful for businesses of every size. Therefore, it's simple to see why the majority of online sellers choose to use an e-commerce platform offering built-in PCI DSS compliance like .

: Sell From Your Own Website

    Are Sites Secure?

Most importantly, every sales page is completely compliant and secure. Sales pages are equipped with security features, including SSL, SCA, GDPR and PCI DSS compliance.