Mixed (Secure and Non-Secure) Content in HuskyCT

Owned by Former user (Deleted)
Last updated: Mar 31, 2022 by Sarah Nguyen (Deactivated)
2 min read

Faculty and staff can manage mixed (secure and non-secure) content within HuskyCT.

Mixed Content Overview

Since HuskyCT allows users to publish content, there is potential for non-secure items to be added. Most often, this occurs when embedded images, audio, or video link to the course from non-SSL pages. When this happens, the page will contain mixed content – that is, content that is both secure and non-secure.

Most modern browsers have built-in features which evaluate a page's level of security. When it meets their standard, the browser displays a padlock in the address bar. Otherwise, the browser may issue a mixed content warning. This warning is sometimes passive and not easily discernible by the learner. Additionally, some browsers may prevent the non-secure content items from displaying on the page.

Firefox, Chrome, Microsoft Edge and IE all block non-secure content by default. Safari is the only major browser which does not automatically block non-secure content.

Mixed Content: Impact on Learner Experience

Blocked Content: Missing Video (Accompanying Text)

Depending on the context, it may be obvious to the learner that content has been blocked.

Screenshot of missing video with accompanying text in HuskyCT.

The course builder embedded the video and used http:// rather than https://. As a result, the browser has automatically blocked the video. This can only be changed by a course builder. 

Blocked content is not always obvious because such content is not always accompanied by text. 

Blocked Content: Missing Video (No Accompanying Text)

Screenshot of missing video without text in HuskyCT.

The course builder embedded a video using a link to non-secure resources. The content has been blocked by the browser with no indication that a video should be expected. For this reason, we highly recommend course builders always include a textual description for any embedded content in their course.

Preventing Browsers from Blocking Mixed Content

Once the learner is aware content has been blocked, there are steps they can take to force their browser to display the hidden content.

Displaying Mixed Content on Chrome

  1. Click the shield icon located in the address bar. 

  2. When prompted, select the allow loading of non-secure items option.

Displaying Mixed Content on Firefox

  1. Click the Caution icon located in the address bar. 

  2. When prompted, select the allow loading of non-secure items option. 

Displaying Mixed Content on Microsoft Internet Explorer (10+)

  1. Click the Show all content button located at the bottom of your browser window.

Displaying Mixed Content on Microsoft Edge

  1. Click the shield icon located in the address bar.

  2. When prompted, choose to allow loading of non-secure items.

To fully resolve the issue for all learners, course builders are strongly encouraged to update non-secure URLs to use the HTTPS protocol.

For more information or assistance with HuskyCT, contact the Educational Technology Office at edtech@uconn.edu or (860) 486-5052.

Related Articles