WCAG 3.3.9: Accessible Authentication (Enhanced)

WCAG 3.3.9 Accessible Authentication (Enhanced) is a level AAA success criterion from WCAG 2.2. The enhanced level does not allow a cognitive test at all for authentication, even with a paste alternative, unless a non-cognitive path exists.

People who cannot complete memory or transcription tests need a path that does not ask for them.

How to test

Confirm login can be done with a method that is not a memory test, such as a device prompt or an email link, without requiring a password.

How to fix

Offer a passwordless path.

Example that fails

The only login is a password the person must remember.

Example that passes the check

An emailed one-time link signs the person in.

Shopify

Offer customer accounts with an email code if you enable that Shopify option, and do not remove it.

WooCommerce

Add an email-link login plugin path alongside passwords.

WordPress

Offer a magic-link login.

Wix

Use a member login that can email a link.

Related fixes