HTTPS

HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure) encrypts browser-server communication using TLS, preventing eavesdropping, tampering, and impersonation. The lock icon in the address bar confirms HTTPS is active.

QR codes should always contain https:// URLs. HTTP URLs leave post-scan communication unencrypted. Over 95% of major websites now support HTTPS, and Google includes it as a search ranking factor.