Ensure the websites that you browse are secure

When using Chrome to browse online, if the current website address starts with http instead of https, an exclamation mark will appear next to the URL. This feature applies to normal browsing as well as Incognito mode, and will occur on computers only (i.e. not mobile devices).

When visiting an http site, if you’re prompted to enter log on details or confidential information, the words Not secure will appear next to the exclamation mark. This warns you that your information could be accessed by cyber criminals.

Other web browsers, such as Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer, are also using similar markings, which are likely to become standard across all browsers soon.

What should I do?

Always check the URL status before entering any confidential information. Websites that contain https in their URLs are secure and will ensure that the data you enter (e.g. usernames, passwords, credit card information) is encrypted and remains private between the web server and the browser in use.

Most websites that require you to log on or enter confidential information will say Secure or https in the URL field. However, if these security markings don’t appear, then rather don’t enter any information on the site.