What it is
HTTPS is the encrypted form of HTTP that uses TLS/SSL to protect traffic between browsers, APIs, and servers over port 443. It provides confidentiality, integrity, and server authentication so attackers cannot easily intercept or modify data in transit. Modern applications, payments, and identity flows rely on HTTPS to safeguard credentials, tokens, and sensitive payloads.
Why it matters
If a site fails to enforce HTTPS, adversaries can sniff credentials, hijack sessions, or inject malicious content. Even when HTTPS is enabled, expired certificates, outdated protocols, and weak cipher suites can expose users despite the browser lock icon. FYND frequently flags misconfigured TLS stacks and unmanaged certificates during external monitoring.
How to reduce risk
- Enforce HTTPS-only connections with HSTS and redirect HTTP traffic automatically.
- Use current TLS versions (1.2+) and disable deprecated protocols or ciphers.
- Automate SSL/TLS certificate issuance, renewal, and revocation.
- Monitor for certificate expiration, mismatched hostnames, and configuration drift.
- Test externally with tools like SSL Labs to validate hardening.