If you are a user of Facebook for business, it’s important that you’re up-to-date on a recent security change. As of October 1, 2011, Facebook requires a valid SSL certificate for all pages and applications hosted outside of Facebook.
What’s an SSL certificate?
SSL stands for Secure Socket Layers, which in low-tech speak means a way to encrypt digital information so that your website protects user’s private information. SSL protection is standard for reputable banks and ecommerce to protect credit card information.
So, what exactly does this mean?
If you’re a casual user of Facebook, nothing really. And if your business activity on Facebook is limited to wall posts that simply link back to content on your website, this new requirement won’t affect you.
This new policy is most relevant to page owners who have incorporated custom Facebook pages (any iframe app), or any custom application created by an outside source. If you would like to view an example, you can check out our Big Splash Web Design custom Facebook page.
How do I know if I have — or don’t have — an SSL certificate?
It’s easy to determine. Simply log onto Facebook and go to your custom Facebook page. If a valid certificate is not in place, an SSL error message will display in the area where your custom content typically appears.
If your custom page loads normally, you’re covered.
What do I do if I learn I don’t have an SSL certificate?
The absence of an SSL certificate is a hosting issue (doesn’t mean your page is “broken”); therefore, you should contact the original source that designed and posted your custom page.
If you have questions about this new requirement, feel free to contact us by phone at (281) 816-6932, or via email at [email protected].
