When third-party cookies are blocked, the tools or resources embedded within Moodle (like videos, embedded text, or linked images) might not load. This issue commonly comes up with publisher materials and course tools such OpenStax, McGraw Hill, Pearson, MyOpenMath, Kaltura, H5P, and similar tools.
If you experience these issues, it’s likely related to your browser’s cookie settings.
What Are Third-Party Cookies?
Third-party cookies are small bits of information stored on your browser by websites you visit. They help websites remember certain things, like keeping you logged in or showing specific content. In Moodle, third-party cookies are often used by tools like Kaltura, Panopto, or embedded resources from publishers like OpenStax, McGraw Hill, or Pearson. These tools rely on cookies to work properly within your course.
Why Does This Happen?
Modern browsers have become stricter about blocking third-party cookies to protect your privacy. While this is great for security, it can cause problems when you're trying to view content embedded in Moodle. Instead of seeing the material, you might get an error or a blank box where the content should appear.
Instructor Tip
Provide Alternative Links: For students struggling with embedded content, consider adding a direct link that opens in a new tab or window whenever possible. This can bypass some of the cookie-related issues.
Adblocker Issues and Moodle
Adblockers are another common reason why content may not display correctly in Moodle. Some adblockers mistakenly block embedded course materials, thinking they are advertisements. To determine if the issue is caused by an adblocker or third-party cookies:
- Temporarily disable your adblocker and refresh the Moodle page. If the content appears, then the adblocker is likely causing the issue. You can also try opening the course page in a private or “Incognito” window, as many adblockers are disabled in these modes by default.
- If the content still doesn’t load, follow the steps in the next section to adjust your browser’s cookie settings.
- Consider whitelisting your Moodle site in your adblocker settings to avoid future problems.
How to Allow Third-Party Cookies
Google Chrome
Open Chrome.
Click the three dots in the top-right corner and select Settings.
Under Privacy and Security, click Cookies and other site data.
Scroll down and select Allow all cookies, or choose Block third-party cookies in Incognito (this is less restrictive).
Refresh your Moodle course page and try accessing the content again.
Safari (Mac or iOS)
Open Safari.
On a Mac: Go to Safari > Preferences > Privacy.
On iOS: Go to Settings > Safari.
Uncheck the box for Prevent cross-site tracking or disable "Block All Cookies."
Reload your Moodle course and check if the content displays correctly.
Mozilla Firefox
Open Firefox.
Click the menu button (three horizontal lines) and go to Settings.
Navigate to Privacy & Security.
Under Enhanced Tracking Protection, select Standard (recommended for most users).
Scroll to Cookies and Site Data and uncheck Block cookies and site data" from third-party trackers.
Reload Moodle and test the content.
Microsoft Edge
Open Edge.
Click the three dots in the top-right corner and select Settings.
Under Cookies and site permissions, click Manage and delete cookies and site data.
Enable Allow sites to save and read cookie data (recommended) and disable Block third-party cookies.
Go back to Moodle and refresh the page.
Contact Academic Technology Center
ATC Support & Hours of Operation
Weekday Support, Monday - Friday
- Phone (voicemail only): 541-463-3377 (8am-5pm)
- Email: atc@lanecc.edu (8am-5pm)
- Book a virtual appointment with the ATC (Summer term)
The ATC is open to in-person assistance. Support is available through the above remote options and on campus at CEN 208