3.2.5: Change on Request

What it means

Changes of context happen only on user request — not automatically. At AAA, even warned automatic changes should be user-initiated unless essential.

Auto-redirects and auto-refresh should be off by default.

How to fix it

• Replace meta refresh redirects with explicit links or buttons.
• Let users start updates and downloads instead of auto-launching them.
• Disable auto-advancing carousels that navigate to new pages.
• Offer opt-in for any feature that changes context.

Quick examples

• Good: Users click “View desktop site” instead of being redirected automatically.
• Bad: A page meta-refreshes to a new URL every 30 seconds without control.
• Good: Live dashboard updates stay on the same page until the user opens details.
• Bad: Selecting a product colour auto-opens checkout in a new tab.