PDF security settings block assistive technology on Shopify
What this is
3 PDF documents have security settings that do not allow text to be read out by assistive technology.
Who it affects
- Screen reader users
- People with low vision
Standards
How to fix it
- Open the PDF security settings (Acrobat: File → Properties → Security) and allow "Content copying for accessibility" (or remove the password restrictions).
- If a password is required to open the file, the document cannot be accessible to everyone: offer it another way.
- Replace the file on your site.
On Shopify
Fix the PDF in the program it was made with (Word, Google Docs, InDesign): turn on the accessibility options when exporting ("Tagged PDF" / "Create accessible PDF"), set the document title and language in the file properties, then export again. Upload the new file under Settings → Files and update every link or button that points to the old one.
Other platforms
Prompt for an AI coding tool
Scan your site with AccessibilityBrief and you get a ready-to-use prompt for this problem, with the exact elements on your pages filled in.
Check your own website
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More fixes
Automated testing detects only a portion of WCAG issues. Manual testing is required to assess full conformance.