The HTTPS error on Tumblr is a common issue that many users encounter, especially when trying to save a custom theme. This error occurs because Tumblr has updated its security policies to enforce the use of HTTPS for all assets and links within a theme.
In this article, we’ll explore the root causes of this error, how to resolve it, and best practices to avoid encountering it in the future.
Why Does the HTTPS Error Occur?
Understanding HTTPS and Its Importance
HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure) is an extension of HTTP that is used for secure communication over a computer network. It is encrypted to increase the security of data transfer. This is particularly important for websites that handle sensitive information like login credentials, payment information, or personal data.
Tumblr’s Security Policies
Tumblr has updated its security policies to enforce the use of HTTPS for all assets and links within a theme. This means that if your custom Tumblr theme contains any URLs starting with http://, you will encounter an error when trying to save the theme. The platform now requires all such URLs to be updated to https://.
Common Scenarios
- Old Themes: Older themes may have been created before these security updates and may contain
http://URLs. - External Assets: If you’re using external images, CSS, or JavaScript files, make sure they are served over HTTPS.
- Manual Edits: If you’ve manually edited your theme and added links, you might have accidentally included
http://URLs.
How to Resolve the HTTPS Error
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access the “Edit HTML” Section
Navigate to the “Customize” section of your Tumblr dashboard and access the “Edit HTML” option.
2. Use Find and Replace
Press Ctrl+F to open the Find and Replace dialog. Search for http:// and replace it with https://. Apply this change to all occurrences.
3. Fix Double “S” Issue
The previous step might result in some URLs becoming httpss://. To fix this, use Find and Replace again to search for httpss:// and replace it with https://.
4. Check for Other Protocols
Some URLs might start with android-app:// or ios-app://. These should also be updated to android-app:https:// and ios-app:https:// respectively.
5. Save and Test
After making all these changes, save your theme and refresh your Tumblr blog to ensure that the changes have taken effect.
Extra Considerations
- Backup: Always make a backup of your existing HTML before making changes.
- External Assets: Make sure any externally hosted resources like CSS or JavaScript files are also served over HTTPS.
- Blog Settings: In your Tumblr settings, there should be an option to “Always serve blog over SSL”. Make sure this is enabled.
Best Practices to Avoid Future HTTPS Errors
Code Review and Validation
1. Regular Audits
Make it a habit to regularly audit your Tumblr theme’s HTML for any non-HTTPS URLs. This is especially important if you frequently update your theme or add new assets.
2. Use Validators
There are various online tools available that can scan your HTML code for non-HTTPS URLs. Utilize these tools to catch any issues before they become a problem.
External Resources
1. Trusted Sources
Always use trusted sources for external assets like images, CSS, or JavaScript files. Make sure these sources serve their content over HTTPS.
2. Local Hosting
If possible, host external assets locally on your Tumblr blog. This gives you more control and ensures that they are served over HTTPS.
Updates and Community
1. Stay Updated
Keep an eye on Tumblr’s updates and announcements. They often release security updates that may affect your blog.
2. Community Forums
Participate in Tumblr community forums or follow relevant tags on Tumblr to stay informed about common issues and solutions, including HTTPS errors.
Conclusion
Understanding and resolving the HTTPS error on Tumblr is crucial for maintaining a secure and functional blog. By following the steps outlined in this article and adhering to best practices, you can ensure a smooth and secure Tumblr experience for both yourself and your visitors.
