In today’s digital world, security should never be an afterthought. Every webpage needs to take security seriously. One way to show this is by using a security.txt file. I strongly believe that any website that does not include a proper security.txt file is missing a key part of basic web hygiene. It’s not only a sign of professionalism, but it also helps make the internet safer for everyone.
What Is security.txt?
The security.txt file is a simple text file placed in a standard location on your website. It allows security researchers and ethical hackers to contact you if they find a vulnerability. This file is like a digital version of a doorbell for your site’s security team. Instead of guessing how to report a problem, researchers know exactly where to go.
The standard location is:
https://yourdomain.com/.well-known/security.txtFor example:
https://analyzerhq.com/.well-known/security.txtA Simple Example of a security.txt File
Here is a basic example of what a security.txt file might look like. Below the example, I’ve added a short explanation for each line to help you understand its purpose:
Contact: mailto:security@analyzerhq.com
Preferred-Languages: en
Canonical: https://analyzerhq.com/.well-known/security.txt
Expires: 2026-12-31T23:59:00.000ZEach line in the example above has a specific role in helping researchers communicate with you clearly:
- Contact: This field is essential. Without it, the rest is useless.
- Preferred-Languages: Tells researchers what language to use.
- Canonical: Confirms the main URL of the file.
- Expires: Lets others know how long the file is valid.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
In my experience, many websites either forget to use security.txt or use it incorrectly. Here are the most common mistakes:
- Missing Contact Information – This is the worst mistake. Without contact info, the file does nothing.
- Placing the File in the Wrong Location – It must be under .well-known/security.txt. Not anywhere else.
- Outdated or Broken Links – If the URLs in the file don’t work, it hurts your credibility.
- No Expiration Date – If there’s no expiration, people won’t know if the info is still valid.
- Using Fancy Formatting – This is a plain text file. No HTML, no Markdown. Keep it simple.
Why I Recommend Using security.txt on Every Webpage
Adding a security.txt file is not just about checking a box. It shows that you care about security. It shows that your webpage is open to feedback from experts. When I see a properly placed security.txt file, I know the site owner is paying attention.
Security.txt gives your site a professional image. It makes your webpage look more trustworthy. It signals that you take vulnerability reports seriously. It also gives white hat hackers a clear, ethical path to report what they find. That can prevent real damage.
Boosting Trust Through Visibility
When a site has a clear and accessible security.txt file, it builds confidence. Users and researchers see that you have thought ahead. You are not just reacting to problems, but preparing for them. That mindset separates amateurs from professionals.
I have personally reported security issues to websites that had no clear contact method. Often, I had to dig through legal pages or send messages on social media. With security.txt, this hassle disappears. It simplifies communication, and that is always a win.
How to Keep It Up to Date
A security.txt file is not a one-time setup. You must maintain it. Make sure the contact email works. Update expiration dates regularly. Check that all URLs listed in the file are still valid.
Also, if your policy or process changes, reflect that in the file. This shows you are not just security-conscious but also detail-oriented.
Taking Action Now
There is no good excuse for not using security.txt. It is a small step with a big impact. Every webpage, whether small or large, benefits from it. I urge every website owner to add one today. It costs nothing, yet it adds real value.
If you want to show that your site takes security seriously, this is one of the easiest and clearest ways to do it. Don’t wait for a breach to make security a priority. With a well-made security.txt file, you prove that you are thinking ahead and ready to work with the security community.
A properly implemented security.txt file does not just protect you – it makes the entire internet a little safer. And that, in my opinion, is something worth doing.