PDFs and Iframes not Loading in Frontend

Some users may encounter issues with PDFs and iframes not loading in the frontend when the plugin is set to Ghost Mode.

This problem arises from the specific configuration of the WP Ghost > Firewall > Header Security options, particularly when the X-Frame-Options is set to SAMEORIGIN. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this issue and provide solutions to ensure a seamless user experience.

The X-Frame-Options Challenge

One of the security measures implemented by WP Ghost is the use of the X-Frame-Options header. When set to SAMEORIGIN, this option restricts web pages from being embedded within iframes on external sites. While this is an effective measure to prevent clickjacking and other security threats, it can inadvertently hinder the loading of PDFs and iframes in the frontend.

The Impact on Iframes

When the “X-Frame-Options” is set to SAMEORIGIN, it prevents iframes from displaying content that originates from a remote source.

This means that if your iframe content is hosted on a different domain, it will be blocked from loading in the frontend. However, if the content is local, and residing on the same domain, it should load without any issues.

The PDF Loading Challenge

Similarly, when trying to embed a PDF in an iframe, the SAMEORIGIN setting can create problems. If the PDF is hosted externally, attempting to load it within an iframe may result in failure due to the restrictive X-Frame-Options policy.

Solutions

1. Adjust X-Frame-Options settings: To resolve the issue, consider adjusting the X-Frame-Options setting in the Firewall & Header options. Instead of using SAMEORIGIN, you can set it to ALLOW-FROM and specify the URLs of the domains from which you want to allow iframe embedding.
2. Localize Content: If possible, host the content locally. This ensures that the iframe content, whether it be a webpage or a PDF, is on the same domain, allowing it to bypass the X-Frame-Options restriction.

By understanding the impact of the X-Frame-Options setting and implementing appropriate adjustments, website administrators can strike a balance between security and functionality, ensuring a smooth user experience for their audience.