If you’re seeing a deceptive page warning when trying to access your website, don’t panic. This issue is often related to SSL certificate configuration or, in some cases, may be a false positive triggered by Google Safe Browsing. This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Ensure SSL Certificate Installation
Make sure you have an SSL certificate installed on your server or device. If you haven’t installed one, consider obtaining an SSL certificate from No-IP. If you have a paid subscription, you likely already have one or more certificates provided by No-IP, free of charge!
Unfortunately, not all devices support the installation of SSL Certificates. Most Routers, DVR’s, or Security Cameras don’t support SSL certificates. You will need to consult your User Manual or product Support Page to ensure the installation of SSL Certificates on your device is possible.
If you need help getting started. Follow our guide.
Verify Certificate Validity
Check the validity period of your SSL certificate. If it has expired, renew it promptly. Most modern browsers will display a warning if the SSL certificate is expired.
Update SSL Certificate if Necessary
If you’ve recently updated your SSL certificate, ensure that the latest certificate is installed on your server. Outdated or mismatched certificates can trigger warnings.
Identify Mixed Content Issues
Ensure that all resources (images, scripts, stylesheets) on your website are loaded over HTTPS. Mixed content (HTTP and HTTPS resources on the same page) can trigger security warnings.
For more information, Mozilla has a good explanation here.
Update Insecure Resource URLs
If you find any insecure resource URLs (HTTP instead of HTTPS), update them in your website code. This includes references in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files.
Request a Review from Google Safe Browsing
Google Safe Browsing is a service provided by Google, and is integrated into many modern browsers that flags websites as potentially dangerous so users can stay safe while browsing the internet.
Unfortunately, Google sometimes gets it wrong and will erroneously flag your website as malicious. If your website has been reported as potentially malicious or deceptive, you can request a review of this warning by visiting the Google Safe Browsing page.
Submitting a Review Request
- Go to the Google Safe Browsing website.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Navigate to the “Security Issues” section.
- Select “Deceptive Site Ahead.”
- Follow the instructions to submit a review request.
If your site is flagged erroneously, provide detailed information in your review request explaining that your website adheres to security best practices. Emphasize any recent SSL certificate updates and other initiatives you have taken to make your website safer.