Chrome update warns users of 'not secure' sites

It's getting a whole lot easier to spot an unsecured website, thanks to Google Chrome's latest update.

In changes that will first appear in Chrome 56 beta, websites that collect passwords or credit card information while using HTTP protocols will be clearly marked as 'not secure' right in the address bar.

HTTPS adds an additional layer of security to standard web protocol, and should be used on all sites that have any form of login or ecommerce.

The change has been on the cards for a while, and others are doing the same, such as Microsoft. It follows moves to block outdated Flash content by default, following a huge number of cyber attacks in recent years. If Flash-based content is present, users will be shown pop up windows asking if they want to allow the program to run.

At the moment for differentiating between HTTP and HTTPS, Chrome simply shows a padlock when a site is secure. Being more explicit in future, showing 'not secure' clearly in the address bar should help web users be more aware of the security of sites they are using.

The public version of the update is expected in early 2017. Get in touch to find out how to ensure your website's security status is right.

How the address bar shows non secure websites