Our checkout and payment pages have always been served via the web's standard encryption layer (called secure socket layer) to protect customers' private information when placing photo orders. The same technology is used by banks and credit card merchants to protect users when transacting online.

The web is not secure by default

All modern browsers have the ability to make secure connections, but not all websites are configured to serving pages securely. When a website does not offer HTTPS, the browser will use the traditional and open HTTP connection, which is not encrypted. Google Chrome browsers show a big "NOT SECURE" message in the address bar, to warn users that the connection is not secure.

In cases where private information is not exchanged between a visitor and the website, this is perfectly ok. However, visitors will be concerned with this message when they looking to purchase goods and providing personal information online.

Encryption for all storefronts

Along with our checkout and payment pages, which have always been served via SSL, all other pages from all our storefront domains are now served securely as well. A storefront consists mainly of events and photo galleries, which are viewed by visitors, before moving onto the checkout to place their order.

Although storefronts don't really collect private information, we have decided to join the global movement in serving all pages (no matter how trivial) via a secure socket between a visitors browser and our server.

Benefits

Secure pages have several benefits including: better ranking with search engines, increased confidence with potential customers, and ultimately more sales.