Decoding The CAPTCHAs Puzzle: Barriers, Solutions, and Accessibility

This session will explore how CAPTCHAs, while important for security, often create barriers for users with disabilities. Using WCAG guidelines, we’ll examine the different ways CAPTCHAs impact accessibility, from keyboard navigation challenges to reliance on sensory perception and cognitive tasks. Many common CAPTCHA types, including visual, audio, and interactive puzzles, can exclude users who rely on assistive technology. We will discuss real-world examples of these barriers and highlight alternative authentication methods that improve accessibility. Participants will learn about best practices for designing and implementing CAPTCHAs that comply with WCAG while maintaining security. By the end, attendees will have a deeper understanding of the accessibility challenges CAPTCHAs present and the tools available to create more inclusive authentication. Raising awareness about these barriers is essential in ensuring that digital security measures do not come at the cost of accessibility and that all users have equal access to online platforms.