An Explanation of Encryption

One thing that sets AdClear apart is our Security Certificate, but many people are confused about what it does. And rightfully so: encryption is a confusing concept, especially when it relates to an ad blocker. Android users, fret not. With this article, we’ll go over why encryption is necessary online, and why, combined with AdClear, it can create an ideal browsing environment for our users.

Encryption, conceptually, is coding or tightening the security of something. On the internet, SSL certificates creates a key that secures the connection between the web server and the user. This is usually used in high risk areas, like logins, transactions, or registrations. Encrypted browsing in general locks these interactions behind that encryption key, thus giving users extra privacy no matter where they are on the web. Encrypted browsing can be determined on Android by the padlock located in the URL (the URL will also be https:// rather than http://). This is a safer way to browse that offers better privacy and security protection. Most web browsers give the option to utilize HTTPS at all times.

From our calculations, around 24% of the ads our users encounter are encrypted. As we’ve previously mentioned, these kinds of ads are notoriously used as hosts for malware and phishing scams. This threat still exists under the protection of HTTPS, but if done on the phone, AdClear would not block any ads. That’s what our certificate is for. It may require a bit of savvy to understand, but it creates a safer and less annoying browsing experience. Plus, it’s completely optional. We think if you try the certificate out, you will probably like it. For all intents and purposes, it’s a win-win, and we’re the only non-root ad blocker to provide this service.

For questions:
Christian Sandlin
csandlin@seven.com