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"http" stands for "hypertext transfer protocol"; the s in "https" stands for "secure."  All websites used to begin with "http," but recently, with all the security breaches and advances in technology, more and more websites are moving to "https."

"https" helps to ensure that the website you're visiting is actually the site you intended to visit.

Please know that there are still many legitimate websites using the old "http."  Not all legitimate sites use or need to use a secure connection. This does not mean that you cannot trust a legitimate website, but you should exercise caution when using the site.

Also know that a site isn't automatically safe because it begins with "https".  This only helps to ensure scammers aren't impersonating sites they don't own.  But scammers could simply purchase the "https" security certifications for their illegitimate websites.

A website's Privacy Policy privacy policy will state how data is collected on the company's website. If you're concerned about the data the website may be gathering, refer to their Privacy Policyprivacy policy. If you're unable to find easily locate the website's privacy policy, the site may not be secure.

Below is an example of what appears at the bottom of most uwf.edu webpages:

Some web pages can be accessed only after logging in to a specific website.

To see if a web page can be accessed only after logging in somewhere,

1. Copy the link to the web page.
2. Open an incognito window in Google Chrome. 
3. Paste the link in the address bar of the new incognito window
4. Press "Enter."

If a login is required, you'll see a login screen.