Which protocol is typically used for secure online transactions?

The protocol typically used for secure online transactions is HTTPS, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. HTTPS is an extension of HTTP and incorporates multiple security layers by utilizing encryption through protocols such as SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security). This encryption ensures that data transferred between the user's browser and the web server remains confidential and integral, protecting it from eavesdropping and tampering during transmission.

This is particularly important in online transactions, where sensitive information such as credit card details, personal identification, and other confidential data are being exchanged. By using HTTPS, websites can provide a secure connection, fostering trust and safety for users conducting online transactions. Additionally, most modern web browsers indicate when a site is secure by displaying a padlock icon in the address bar, further reassuring users about the safety of their data exchange.

In contrast, the other protocols listed do not provide the same level of security for online transactions. FTP is primarily for transferring files and lacks encryption. HTTP is the standard protocol for transferring hypertext but does not encrypt data, making it vulnerable to interception. SMTP is used for sending emails and does not address the secure transmission of data relevant to web transactions. Thus, HTTPS is specifically designed for secure online communication, making it