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Developing a website: Digital security

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Developing a website: Digital security

There are a number of considerations when determining how ‘secure’ your website should be. Most businesses subscribe to a hosting service to house the website, which is referred to as hosting ‘externally’. (ie: you don’t have the physical hardware onsite. Often larger companies with existing IT departments, or specialised staff will host internally).

If your website is hosted this way and is predominantly an information dissemination service, then security is most probably adequate. Hosting providers often have strict backup, server update, and security policies, which basically means your website is extremely secure when hosted this way.

If your website is set up for online transacting however, there are more important considerations. Ensure that when your customers are entering credit card or other sensitive information, that your site is using SSL security. This is indicated by a locked ‘padlock’ or ‘key’ icon at the bottom of your browser window, and effectively ensures that no one is viewing the current activity. If you are using a 3rd party to automate payments, SSL will already be utilised.

Otherwise, SSL functionality is provided by your hosting service and is an added cost. Your developer will use SSL as a matter of course for transaction functions, however you should ensure this is the case before launching your site.

Of course, perhaps the most important aspect (at least commercially) is to ensure your security policy is readily available online for your customers. Include a page devoted to explaining the use of SSL, and your policy on customer information (eg: “We do not store credit card information, and would never divulge personal information to anyone” etc.).

In conclusion, if you are using a reputable developer and/or 3rd party payment gateway, you will probably never have need to question your security set up. However be warned, poor workmanship or sloppy security measures will result in uncomfortable online customers at best, and legal/commercial implications at worst, so ensure you have all bases covered.

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