As a WebNIC customer, staying informed about changes to web security is crucial. A recent update from Entrust, one of the trusted providers of TLS (Transport Layer Security) certificates, will affect many businesses and individuals who rely on their certificates to secure web traffic. Google and Mozilla have announced new distrust timelines for Entrust’s TLS certificates, which may impact your website or online services.
Key Updates on Distrust Dates
Here are some actions you can take to prepare for the transition:
- Google Chrome will begin distrusting Entrust TLS certificates on November 11, 2024.
- Mozilla Firefox will follow shortly after, with a distrust date set for November 30, 2024.
These dates reflect a significant shift as Entrust transitions its TLS certificate issuance to a new partner. After November 11, 2024, Entrust will no longer issue its TLS certificates. This change is part of ongoing efforts by major browsers to enhance web security and ensure the highest standards for online trust.
Why This Matters for Your Website
TLS certificates play a crucial role in securing data between web browsers and servers. They help establish trust with users by providing a secure, encrypted connection that protects sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and other personal data.
Without a valid, trusted TLS certificate, your website may display security warnings to visitors, potentially leading to lost traffic, decreased trust, and even harm to your SEO rankings. For those who is using Entrust TLS certificates, it is essential to plan for this transition to prevent potential service interruptions.
What You Can Do: Preparation Steps and Tips
Here are some actions you can take to prepare for the transition:
- Review Your Current TLS Certificates Take stock of your current TLS certificates and identify those issued by Entrust. This information is often available through your domain registrar, website hosting provider, or in the administrative dashboard where you manage your website’s security settings.
- Plan for Replacement If your Entrust TLS certificates are set to expire soon or near the distrust dates, consider replacing them ahead of time. WebNIC offers various TLS certificate options, so you can find a suitable replacement that meets your security needs.
- Check with Your Web Hosting Provider If your website is hosted on a third-party platform, verify with your hosting provider whether they offer any guidance on this transition. Many hosting providers will have information on how to replace or update your TLS certificates, ensuring compatibility with Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox post-distrust dates.
- Monitor Your Website for Security Warnings After the distrust dates, closely monitor your website for any security warnings in browsers. These warnings will indicate whether any Entrust certificates are still in use, and prompt action may be required to replace them.
- Stay Informed Follow updates on this topic from Entrust, Google, Mozilla, and WebNIC. These organisations may release further information or updates on the TLS certificate changes, helping you stay ahead of any potential impact on your website.
WebNIC Support for Your TLS Certificate Transition
WebNIC is committed to helping our customers navigate this change with as little disruption as possible. Our dedicated support team is ready to assist you with any questions or concerns regarding your Entrust TLS certificates, and we can guide you in selecting alternative certificates that ensure the continued security of your online services.
If you are unsure of the next steps or have specific questions about the TLS certificate distrust timeline, WebNIC’s support team is here to help. Our priority is to provide you with reliable solutions that keep your online services secure and trusted by your users.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Web Security
Transitioning your TLS certificates is just one part of an effective web security strategy. Here are a few additional tips for maintaining your website’s security:
- Use strong passwords for administrative access and change them regularly.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security on your accounts.
- Regularly update your software and plugins to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Perform routine security audits to ensure all aspects of your site are protected.
For further details, here is a video link from our CA provider with more insights on the transition: Watch the Video.
At WebNIC, we’re here to support you through this change. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help selecting or implementing new TLS certificates to maintain your website’s security and user trust.