Itqualityassurance
The lock symbol and related URL containing “https” simply mean that the connection between your web browser and the website server is encrypted, which is important. It prevents others from eavesdropping or intercepting your communication between your browser and the website's server.
What does it mean when a website has a padlock symbol?
When you go to a site that has a padlock icon next to the site name, it means the site is secured with a digital certificate. This means that any information sent between your browser and the website is sent securely, and can't be intercepted and read by someone else while the information is in transit.
What does a GREY padlock mean on a website?
A gray padlock means that Firefox connected securely, but that the site didn't get a more expensive Extended Validation SSL certificate. In order to get an EVSSL certificate, which shows a green padlock in Firefox, the company which operates the website has to verify additional details to the certificate issuer.
