- Is ERR_CERT_DATE_INVALID always caused by the website?
- Not always. It most often means the site's SSL certificate has expired, but it can also be triggered by your PC's clock being set to the wrong date or time. Check your system clock first — it's the quickest fix to rule out.
- Is it safe to click 'Proceed anyway' past this error?
- No. An invalid certificate means the site's identity cannot be verified. Proceeding exposes your connection to potential interception. Wait for the site to renew its certificate, or contact the site owner if it's urgent.
- How do I fix it if the problem is on my PC rather than the site?
- Right-click the clock in the taskbar → 'Adjust date/time' → turn on 'Set time automatically'. If it was wrong, reload the page — this resolves the error immediately in most cases.