All WCAG criteria
WCAG 2.5.2 · OperableLevel A

2.5.2Pointer Cancellation

Single-pointer actions (clicks, taps) must trigger on the up-event, OR provide an abort/undo mechanism — so users can release outside the target to cancel.

Common failures

Patterns that fail this criterion.

  • 01Buttons that fire on `mousedown` instead of `click`
  • 02Delete actions on touch with no confirmation, no undo
How to test

Testing approach: manual.

Manual — start a press on a button, drag off, release; confirm the action does not fire.

How to fix

Remediation steps.

  1. 1

    Use the click event

    Default `<button onClick>` already fires on the up-event within the element. Custom click handlers should match.

  2. 2

    Confirm destructive actions

    Delete, send, purchase — confirm dialog or undo toast.

Scan for WCAG 2.5.2 on your site

Find every violation in 42 seconds.

AccessProof runs axe-core 4.9.1 against your site and flags every WCAG criterion with the offending element selector. WCAG 2.5.2 is one of 49 criteria we check on every scan.

Start free auditTry free scanner — no signup

All 50 WCAG 2.1 Level A + AA success criteria explained.

View the full checklist