In today’s digital world, browsing the internet is second nature but not every website is safe. Malicious sites can steal your data, infect your device with malware, or trick you into scams. Whether you’re shopping online, reading news, or downloading files, knowing how to check a website’s safety is essential.
We will see the steps on how to do it.
1. Look for the website’s trust seal
A trust seal is a symbol issued by a third-party organization that certifies a website’s security. It’s usually displayed on the homepage or in the footer. Make sure the seal is clickable and leads to a verification page otherwise, it might be fake.
2. Examine the website’s design and functionality
A well-designed, professional-looking website inspires confidence. Fraudulent sites often contain spelling mistakes, visual inconsistencies, or suspicious features like excessive pop-ups or unexplained requests for personal information.
Some scam sites use generic templates to appear legitimate, so look for branding inconsistencies or low-quality design elements.
3. Check for HTTPS in the URL
A secure website uses the HTTPS protocol (visible in the address bar). The “S” stands for “secure” and means that data exchanged between your browser and the site is encrypted. Avoid sites that only use HTTP, especially if they request sensitive information.
4. Use SSL certificate checkers
Tools like SSL Labs or Why No Padlock allow you to check whether a website has a valid SSL certificate. This is especially useful before entering payment details or personal data.
5. Verify trust seals displayed on the site
Sites often display badges like Norton Secured, McAfee Secure, or TRUSTe. Make sure these are authentic and link to a verification page. Also, check for full business contact information and reliable communication options like VoIP or live chat.
6. Review the website’s privacy policy
A trustworthy site should clearly explain what data it collects, how it’s used, and who has access to it. Also check their data retention policy they shouldn’t store unnecessary information like IP addresses or cookies after your session ends.
7. Check the site’s reputation
Use services like Web of Trust (WOT), Scamadviser, or Trustpilot to read reviews and warnings from other users. This is especially helpful when dealing with online retailers or financial platforms.
8. Scan the site with security tools
Tools like Sucuri SiteCheck or VirusTotal scan websites for malware, phishing attempts, and vulnerabilities. These quick scans can help you avoid dangerous sites before you even click.
9. Confirm secure payment options
Before making a purchase, ensure the site offers secure payment methods like PayPal or credit cards with authentication. Avoid sites that only accept wire transfers or untraceable payment methods.
10. Run a website vulnerability test
For advanced users or professionals, tools like Nessus or OpenVAS can scan a website for known vulnerabilities. This helps identify weak points before hackers can exploit them.
(powerdmarc.com)