Data encryption is still essential part of on-line protection

A summary report of Internet security threats in 2011 reveals that SSL certificates are still accepted by IT specialists as one of the basic elements of e-data protection. Symantec warns: 232 million identity has been stolen in 2011.

Besides identity theft, number of attacks on computer systems is also alarming. 5.5 billion threat coming from websites and e-mails was blocked just in 365 days. Thus, in comparison to 2010 the number of infected sites grew by 81%. Most malware was detected on blogs, personal websites and also business, sales and education services. Symantec experts have found 403 million types of malicious programs.

The report indicates that using SSL certificates for online data transmission protects users against risks above-mentioned and also against the increasing incidence of attacks such as Man In The Middle. https:// protocol has been also listed as one of the main elements of users education for online safety.

In the summary you can find tips for your safety:

• especially avoid sending sensitive data over unencrypted Wi-Fi networks and public computers,
• always use the https:// protocol when you log in and use e-mail, social networking sites and pages that require authorized access,
• look for the green address bar, the https:// protocol and trust signs wherever it is necessary to send sensitive information.

The authors emphasize that the best solution for Internet users and website owners is using 2 options together: Always On SSL and EV SSL. The first one is a solution that connect with all pages site (not just login and registration) using a https:// protocol. In this way, the entire session is protected all the time. EV SSL certificate is the highest level of authorization of the owner. Thanks to this, the name appears in the address bar is highlighted green field.
 

A Symantec customer survey of internet shoppers in Europe, USA and Australia showed that the green address bar increases the feeling of security for 60% of respondents. In addition, results showed that 90% of Americans would not continue a transaction if they see browser information about insecure connection.

More details about the types of attacks in 2011, advices for owners about trusted e-commerce and more can be found on the Symantec report, "Internet Security Threat Report": http://www.symantec.com/threatreport/.