HTTPS means HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure. Based on the protocol HTTP, but adds a layer of security to it using the protocol TLS (Transport Layer Security) or earlier SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). This layer encrypts the communication between the browser and the server, so that the data cannot simply be intercepted or altered, which brings up several benefits. This makes HTTPS crucial for securing the transmission of passwords, payment details, personal information and any sensitive data. Users can recognize a secure site by lock icons in the browser address bar and addresses starting with https://.