What symbol indicates a secure website when using Internet browsers?

The correct answer is the lock icon, which signifies a secure website when browsing the internet. This symbol indicates that the connection between your browser and the website is encrypted using SSL (Secure Socket Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) protocols. This encryption helps protect sensitive data, such as personal information and credit card numbers, from being intercepted by malicious third parties.

When you see the lock icon, it means that the website has implemented measures to ensure that the data exchanged between you and the site remains confidential. Additionally, it often suggests that the site has undergone certain verification processes, adding a layer of trustworthiness.

In contrast, the other symbols would generally indicate varying levels of security. An unlocked padlock may suggest that the connection is not secure, and critical data could be exposed. A red triangle often signals a critical warning about the site’s security or potential risks, while a yellow shield might indicate issues related to the website’s security certificate or that it is partially secure. Each of these symbols conveys a message about security, but the lock icon is the positive indication that you are on a secure site.