blink elements are deprecated and must not be used

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Rule Description

This rule requires that no <blink> elements are present. Flashing text can be difficult to read and blinking objects can be difficult to activate. The associated automated check finds the presence of all <blink> elements so that they can be removed.

The Algorithm, in Simple Terms

Checks to make sure that the <blink> element is never used

Why this is Important

As the name suggests, <blink> elements cause content to flash. Though you may like the effect, blinking text can be difficult to read, and blinking objects (links, buttons, etc.) can be difficult to activate.

How to Fix the Problem

Remove all <blink> elements.

Compliance Data & User Impact

User Impact: Minor

Disabilities Affected:

Low Vision
Cognitive
Mobility/Dexterity

Issue Type:

WCAG 2.0 (A): MUST
WCAG 2.1 (A): MUST
Section 508: MUST

WCAG Success Criteria:

2.2.2 Pause, Stop, Hide

Section 508 Guidelines:

1194.22 (j) Screen flicker frequency

Related Deque University Course Pages

Deprecated Markup (from the course Semantic Structure and Navigation)
Typography (from the course Visual Design and Colors)
Web Accessibility, Part 5: Multimedia, Animations, and Motion (from the course Multimedia, Animations, and Motion)
Seizure-Inducing Flashes (from the course Multimedia, Animations, and Motion)

Other Related Resources

F47: Failure of Success Criterion 2.2.2 due to using the blink element

Additional Information

Relevant Technologies:

HTML 4
HTML5

Test Reliability: Automated testing is possible, with high accuracy

Rule ID: blink