WRAL websites move to safer standard

The safer protocol is known as HTTPS. On HTTPS sites such as WRAL.com, information sent between the browser and web server -- such as a name, email address or credit card number -- are encrypted.

Posted 4:36 p.m. Apr 25, 2018 — Updated 4:37 p.m. Apr 25, 2018

As users grow increasingly concerned about internet privacy and security, WRAL has moved to a more secure method for serving content on all of its websites.

The safer protocol is known as HTTPS. On HTTPS sites such as WRAL.com, information sent between the browser and web server — such as a name, email address or credit card number — are encrypted. On HTTP sites, that information is not secured and is subject to being obtained by hackers. Additionally, HTTPS sites have security certificates that verify to visitors that the domains are registered to legitimate businesses and not knock-off “phishing” sites designed to steal information.

When sites are served securely via HTTPS, web browsers such as Chrome and Internet Explorer typically display a lock in the address bar next to the website address. Web site visitors can click on that lock icon for additional information about the security of the site. On non-HTTPS sites, there may be an informational icon, which when clicked indicates the site is not secure.

WRAL is the first local publisher in North Carolina and among the first in the country to move to the safer standard, which is endorsed by Google and Apple. Most major national news groups, including CNN, Washington Post and The New York Times, have already adopted the HTTPS standard.

“We want users of our websites to feel secure when they visit our sites, and moving to the HTTPS standard should reassure them that we take internet security seriously,” said John Conway, General Manager for CBC New Media, the digital division of Capitol Broadcasting Company.

The switch from HTTP to HTTPS took several months and required an extensive audit of site content, including content supplied by partners.

WRAL-affiliated sites using the HTTPS security protocol include WRAL.com, WRALSportsFan.com, HighSchoolOT and WRALTechWire.com.

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