Why can't I open links on Facebook?

General Discussion
1

I’m having a frustrating issue with the Facebook app on my Android phone. Whenever I try to open links, nothing happens. This has been bothering me for a while, and I can’t figure out what’s wrong. Here are some things I’ve already tried:

Troubleshooting Steps I’ve Attempted:

  1. Check App Permissions: I’ve verified that the app has all the necessary permissions.
  2. Clear Cache: I cleared the app cache to see if that would help.
  3. Update the App: The app is up to date with the latest version from the Play Store.
  4. Check Network Connection: My Wi-Fi and mobile data seem to be working fine, but I did restart my phone just in case.

Additional Info:

  • Device: Android phone, updated to the latest software.
  • Facebook Version: Latest version from the Play Store.
  • Error Messages: No error messages; the links just won’t open.

Has anyone else experienced this? Are there any other troubleshooting steps I should try? Any help would be appreciated!

2 Likes
2

I had the same issue! Sometimes, browser settings like pop-up blockers can prevent links from opening. Check if yours is enabled and try disabling it for Facebook!

3

That’s a great tip! Also, make sure to look at any security extensions you’ve installed. They can block links too.

4

I tried that and it still didn’t work! Could it be something else? I mean, it can’t just be pop-ups, right?

4 Likes
5

Exactly! I once had an extension that blocked all redirects, which was the culprit. It’s worth checking your extensions!

4 Likes
6

If you have a privacy browser like DuckDuckGo, it could also be blocking elements on Facebook. Switch to a standard browser for troubleshooting.

1 Like
7

Good point! I switched back to Chrome and it worked fine! Sometimes a browser change makes all the difference.

8

Also, clearing cache and cookies can help! It resolves a lot of weird issues, especially with link navigation.

9

I second that! It felt like I was opening a fresh start on Facebook.

10

I’ve also noticed that certain ad blockers can interfere, so try pausing them while you troubleshoot too.

11

Great idea! Sometimes, no one talks about how ad blockers can get in the way.

6 Likes
12

What if the device itself has restrictions? Maybe it’s a parental control or something similar?

13

That’s possible! I’ve seen those settings disrupt access to various sites. Always worth a double-check on the settings!

14

Just a thought – do you have a favorite ‘open link’ dance that you do when your links won’t work? I should create one!

15

I’ve had issues like this before! It might be due to app permissions. Make sure Facebook has permission to open external links in your settings.

6 Likes
16

I had the same problem! Also, check if your app is updated. Sometimes outdated apps have issues with links.

17

Sometimes certain devices just aren’t compatible with the latest app versions. What phone are you using?

18

I’m using an older model Samsung. It seems to struggle with updates. Could that be it?

19

It could be! Some features don’t work on older devices. Another thing to consider is toggling the ‘Open links externally’ option in settings.

20

I didn’t know about that setting! Thank you, I’ll check that out to see if it helps!

6 Likes