What are common mistakes developers make with SSL/TLS over HTTP?

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) are crucial for making HTTP traffic secure. However, developers often make several common mistakes when implementing SSL/TLS over HTTP. Here are some of the frequent pitfalls:

• Using Outdated Protocols: Many developers continue to use outdated versions of SSL/TLS (like SSL 3.0 or TLS 1.0), which are vulnerable to security threats. Always use the latest stable versions of TLS.
• Not Validating Certificates: Failing to properly validate server certificates can lead to Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks. Always check certificates against trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs).
• Incorrect Configuration: Improper server configurations can leave SSL/TLS at risk. Ensure that your server is configured to support strong cipher suites and disable weak algorithms.
• Neglecting HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS): Not implementing HSTS can expose users to downgrade attacks. This directive enforces the use of HTTPS for all communications.
• Using Mixed Content: Serving HTTP content alongside HTTPS can lead to security warnings or a compromised connection. Ensure all resources are loaded over HTTPS.

Implementing SSL/TLS correctly is essential for protecting sensitive data in transit. Always stay updated with best practices and security recommendations.