Image has a null alt

Compliance Data & User Impact

User Impact: Major

60% Complete

Disabilities Affected:

  • blindness
  • deaf blindness
  • learning disabilities

WCAG Version:
2

WCAG Levels:

  • A

WCAG Guidelines:

Solution Techniques:

Automated Test Accuracy:
Low

Check1st Severity:
1

DRRSAG Designations:

  • description

How to Fix the Problem

Using an empty “alt” attribute is allowed only when the Img element needs to be ignored by Assistive Technology. If this image has text or meaning, add content to the alt attribute

The Algorithm, in Simple Terms

Engine scans the page for <IMG> elements with empty alt attributes

Why Is it Important?

Users who use assistive tools, such as screen readers rely on the alternative text. Images with null alt get ignored by the assistive tools, therefore the users may miss some content.

Code Example

<img src="/example_"squiggle.gif" width="20" height="20" alt="example_" />

This element perfoms as a container, and has no functionality. This container may contain another elements that has functionality or logical role.

Ignore this issue if this element has an alternative that performs the same and overrides the content of this element.