Invisible anchor Elements: How to Verify and Resolve Hidden Link Issues
Summary
Overview
This issue occurs when an (anchor) element exists in the HTML but is not visible to users, often due to styling or implementation methods. These hidden links can still be detected by Siteimprove and may cause accessibility violations—such as missing text alternatives—because they are exposed to assistive technologies.
To validate the finding, it is important to inspect the underlying HTML. You can do this directly within Siteimprove using the HTML view tools or by using browser DevTools to locate and assess the element in the page structure.
Applies To (Environment)
Specify where and for whom this task applies.
- Product / Service: Siteimprove Accessibility
- Version (if applicable): All versions
- Platform / OS / Browser: All supported browsers and platforms
- User role / permissions: Web developers, content editors, accessibility specialists,
Problem / Issue
Mistake:
Not checking the source HTML for invisible <a> elements.
Resolution / Fix:
Look at the source HTML to see if this invisible link is really where Siteimprove says it is. The source HTML can be reviewed in either of two ways:
- Using the Siteimprove page report with the “HTML view” or “Show HTML” buttons
- With Browser DevTools
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