Technical Tip: 'NET::ERR_CERT_WEAK_SIGNATURE_ALGORITHM' error

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Description	This article describes that the error 'NET::ERR_CERT_WEAK_SIGNATURE_ALGORITHM' in Google Chrome indicates a problem with the security certificate of a website.
Scope	FortiGate, Third-Party certificates.
Solution	This error suggests that the website is using a signature algorithm that is considered weak or outdated, making it potentially vulnerable to attacks. Here, is a breakdown of the error: NET::ERR_CERT: This is a general prefix for errors related to network and SSL certificates in Chrome. WEAK_SIGNATURE_ALGORITHM: This indicates the specific nature of the problem, which is that the signature algorithm used by the website's certificate is considered weak. Certificates use cryptographic algorithms to ensure data integrity and authenticity. Over time, as computational capabilities advance and cryptographic research progresses, some algorithms can become vulnerable or can be deemed insufficiently secure against potential threats. When Chrome detects that a website is using such an algorithm, it will warn the user of the above error to prevent potential security risks. To address this: Website visitor: It is a good idea to avoid sharing personal or sensitive information on websites that show this error. The site owner needs to obtain a new SSL certificate using a stronger signature algorithm. It is also possible to contact the website administrator to inform them of the issue. Website owner or administrator: Consider getting a new SSL certificate for the website that uses a stronger, more up-to-date signature algorithm. This will not only ensure the website's security but will also improve the trustworthiness of the site in the eyes of the visitors. Remember, always ensure to keep the software, including web browsers and servers, updated to the latest versions, as these updates often include security enhancements and fixes for known vulnerabilities.