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( Operable / WCAG 2.2.1 )

Meta refresh causes automatic page redirect

This check maps to Timing Adjustable. Use the guidance below to confirm the issue, understand who it affects and ship a fix.

Serious Level A WCAG 2.2.1 — Timing Adjustable

What’s wrong

A <meta http-equiv="refresh"> tag causes the page to automatically reload or redirect after a set time.

Why it matters

Screen reader and keyboard users may need more time to read and interact with a page. An unexpected automatic redirect interrupts them mid-task with no warning and no way to stop it.

How to fix it

Remove meta refresh redirects. Use server-side redirects for permanent redirects. If a timed action is needed, give users control.

Before
<meta http-equiv="refresh" content="5; url=/new-page">
<meta http-equiv="refresh" content="30">
After
<!-- Use server-side redirect instead -->
<!-- Or give the user control -->
<p>
  You will be redirected in <span id="countdown">10</span> seconds.
  <a href="/new-page">Go now</a> or
  <button id="cancel-redirect">Cancel</button>
</p>

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