Extended Validation (EV) is the highest level of SSL Certificate validation, designed to provide the strongest level of trust and security for websites.
Unlike Domain Validation (DV) and Organization Validation (OV), which focus primarily on domain ownership and basic business verification, EV SSL Certificates require a strict and thorough validation process before issuance.
The primary purpose of EV validation is to assure users that a website is operated by a legally established and trustworthy entity. This helps protect against phishing attacks and fraudulent websites by ensuring that only verified businesses can obtain an EV SSL Certificate.
Once an EV SSL Certificate is issued, it enables HTTPS encryption and displays the organization’s verified name within the Certificate details, which users can check for added assurance.
Websites with EV SSL Certificates are widely recognized as being more secure and reputable, making them a preferred choice for businesses that need to establish strong user trust.
How Does EV Validation Work?
Obtaining an EV SSL Certificate requires a more in-depth validation process compared to DV and OV Certificates. Trustico® and its partners follows strict guidelines set by the CA/Browser Forum to verify the legitimacy of the requesting organization.
First, Trustico® confirms domain ownership, ensuring that the organization controls the website for which the Certificate is being requested. This is done using standard verification methods such as e-mail authentication, DNS record verification, or file-based verification.
Next, Trustico® conducts a detailed review of the business or organization. This includes verifying the legal existence of the company by checking official government registration records. Trustico® must confirm that the organization is active and in good standing.
The company’s physical address is also verified to ensure that it is a real, operational business location. Trustico® checks independent sources, such as government databases and third-party directories, to confirm the accuracy of the information provided.
Additionally, Trustico® must validate the organization's telephone number and ensure that it is publicly listed. A phone call is typically made to the company using this number, where an authorized representative must confirm the request for the SSL Certificate.
In some cases, Trustico® may request additional documentation, such as legal agreements, proof of operational status, or a signed verification letter from a company officer or attorney. These extra steps ensure that EV SSL Certificates are only issued to legitimate and reputable entities.
Because of the thorough verification process, EV SSL Certificates take longer to issue than DV or OV Certificates. The process typically takes a few days but can sometimes take longer depending on the responsiveness of the organization and the complexity of the verification.
CNAME or TXT Record Verification Method
Another method is DNS record verification, where we provide a unique code that must be added to the domain DNS records. Once we detect the correct record, domain ownership is confirmed. This method is useful for those who do not have access to an allowed e-mail addresses or prefer a more technical approach.
After placing the SSL Certificate order, you may have the option to validate domain ownership using CNAME records instead of the standard e-mail approval method.
To check availability and to switch to CNAME validation, simply log into our SSL Certificate Tracking & Management Tool 🔗after submitting your order, change the validation preference from Approver E-Mail to CNAME.
This alternative validation method requires you to create a specific CNAME record in your domain's DNS settings, which will verify your control over the domain and allow the certificate issuance process to proceed.
File Based Verification
File-based verification requires the domain owner to upload a verification file to a specific directory on the website’s server. The CA will then check for the presence of this file to confirm ownership. This method is often used by web administrators who have direct control over their website’s files.
Why Is EV Validation Needed?
EV validation is essential for organizations that need to establish the highest level of trust with their website visitors. Unlike DV and OV SSL Certificates, which primarily provide encryption, EV SSL Certificates focus on authentication—ensuring users know exactly who they are dealing with online.
One of the biggest benefits of EV SSL Certificates is their ability to prevent phishing attacks and online fraud. Cybercriminals often create fake websites that appear legitimate, tricking users into entering personal information.
With EV validation, users can check the Certificate details to confirm the verified business identity, making it much harder for fraudsters to impersonate trusted brands.
EV SSL Certificates also improve customer confidence. When users see that a website has undergone extensive verification and is backed by a trusted Certificate Authority, they are more likely to feel safe when providing sensitive information, such as credit card details, passwords, and personal data.
Additionally, some regulatory and compliance standards require businesses to use EV SSL Certificates, particularly in industries like banking, healthcare, and e-commerce. Many large enterprises and government institutions choose EV SSL Certificates to meet strict security requirements while ensuring the highest level of authentication.
Who Should Use EV SSL Certificates?
EV SSL Certificates are ideal for businesses and organizations that need to establish maximum trust and security. They are commonly used by financial institutions, e-commerce websites, law firms, healthcare providers, government agencies, and other high-profile organizations that handle sensitive transactions.
They are particularly beneficial for websites where customer trust is critical. Users who visit an EV-validated website can check the Certificate details to confirm that they are dealing with a legitimate business rather than a potentially fraudulent website.
While EV SSL Certificates provide the highest level of authentication, they may not be necessary for all websites. Smaller businesses, blogs, and personal websites that do not handle sensitive transactions may find that DV or OV SSL Certificates are sufficient for their needs.
However, for businesses that prioritize security, customer trust, and fraud prevention, an EV SSL Certificate from Trustico® is the best choice.
