PDFs are a potential source of malware. Consequently, different browsers (e.g. Chrome, Firefox, Safari), readers (Adobe Reader), operating systems (Mac, iOS, Windows), and virus software handle them differently in order to manage the risk. For many, the links don’t work if they click on the link in the PDF while viewing the website. However, the links almost always work if you download the PDF and open it with Adobe. Below is some detailed information on issues and possible solutions. In any case, you can always copy the link and enter it into a new browser.
Why don’t hyperlinks in PDFs work when I click on them?
Links in PDFs may not work on your computer due to several possible reasons. Here are the common causes and solutions. (Note that you can always copy the hyperlink into a new browser tab or window).
- PDF Viewer Compatibility: Some PDF viewers may not fully support hyperlinks, especially if the PDF was created with specific features (e.g., interactive links or embedded scripts) that the viewer can’t handle.
- Solution: Try opening the PDF in a different viewer, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader (free), Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or a modern browser that supports PDF rendering. Update your current PDF viewer to the latest version to ensure compatibility with newer PDF standards.
- Solution: If you are viewing the PDF on a website, try downloading it to your computer and then opening it in a different viewer, as above.
- Security Settings: Some PDF viewers or your computer’s security settings may block links for safety reasons, especially if the PDF comes from an untrusted source or contains external links.
- Solution: Check your PDF viewer’s settings. For example, in Adobe Acrobat Reader, go to Edit > Preferences > Trust Manager and ensure that external links are allowed.
- Solution: If your antivirus or firewall is blocking links, adjust its settings to permit connections from your PDF viewer.
- Operating System or Software Restrictions: Certain configurations on your computer, such as restricted user permissions or outdated software, might prevent links from opening.
- Solution: Identify the source of the restriction and adjust the settings, although this is easier said than done.