Google unveils encrypted search beta

Google launches new secured search service

Google now offers a new option in its web search service : a beta version of an encrypted search service. Using SSL protocol, it provides encrypted connection between the user and Google, so that the search data cannot be intercepted by a third party. Be careful, it does not mean that Google does not store the search data anymore.

A beta version

The encrypted search service is a beta version. For now, it is only available in traditionnal search. Google Images and Google Maps searches are not currently supported for example.

Goodbye to web analytics ?

Encrypting search means that it will not be possible to track where the traffic to a website comes from. It is a real threat for web analytics and could cause serious problems to webmasters. For now, Google does not switch on the secured search engine by default. I am wondering whether it will stay like that. If not, it could be the death of search analytics.

Will Google analytics be able to track the encrypted searches ?

Google will be the only one to have access to the information of Google secured searches. Is Google going to take the opportunity to give its own analytics service the possibility to track thoses secured searches ? In that case, it would give Google analytics tremendeous advantage over the competition...

What About China

Another question after Google Moved to Hong Kong is : Will China Block the SSL?