Google reCAPTCHA FAQ

Answers to your most common questions about Google reCAPTCHA.

Quick, simple, and helpful information at a glance.

What is Google reCAPTCHA?
Google reCAPTCHA is a service that helps protect websites from spam and abuse by verifying human users through interactive puzzles or questions.
Why am I seeing a message that says "Invalid reCAPTCHA"?
This message appears when the reCAPTCHA answer you provided was not correct. Please make sure you are not a robot by following the instructions carefully.
How do I solve a reCAPTCHA puzzle?
To solve a reCAPTCHA puzzle, simply follow the instructions provided on the screen. This may involve selecting images, typing words or answering a question.
Can reCAPTCHA puzzles be solved by bots or automated tools?
No, reCAPTCHA is designed specifically to prevent bots or automated tools from solving the puzzles. It uses advanced algorithms that can distinguish humans from bots.
What should I do if I keep failing the reCAPTCHA puzzle?
If you are having trouble solving the reCAPTCHA puzzle, try refreshing the page and trying again. You can also click on the audio button to listen to an audio version of the puzzle.
Is reCAPTCHA safe and secure?
Yes, reCAPTCHA is designed and managed by Google to be safe and secure. It constantly evolves and improves to stay ahead of potential threats.
Why is Google reCAPTCHA not working on my website?
There could be several reasons for this, such as incorrect integration, outdated code, or conflicts with other plugins. We recommend checking the reCAPTCHA integration guide or seeking help from a developer.
Can I use reCAPTCHA on my mobile device?
Yes, reCAPTCHA is compatible with mobile devices. However, it may require a different type of puzzle, such as swipe or tap, instead of selecting images.
How long does it take for a reCAPTCHA to expire?
The duration of a reCAPTCHA's validity can vary depending on the site and user. Generally, it expires after a few minutes, but it may sometimes last up to 24 hours.
Can I disable reCAPTCHA on my website?
Yes, you can disable reCAPTCHA, but it is not recommended as it can leave your website vulnerable to spam and abuse.
What is the maximum number of attempts allowed for a reCAPTCHA?
There is no specific limit on the number of attempts for a reCAPTCHA. However, repeated failures may trigger a more challenging puzzle to ensure the user is not a bot.
Can I customize the reCAPTCHA's appearance on my website?
Yes, you can customize the reCAPTCHA's color, size, and other design aspects to match your website's look and feel.
What should I do if reCAPTCHA is not loading correctly?
If the reCAPTCHA is not loading correctly, try clearing your browser's cache and cookies, and then reload the page. If the issue persists, try using a different browser.
Are there any alternatives to Google reCAPTCHA?
Yes, there are other CAPTCHA services available, such as hCaptcha, which offer similar protection against spam and abuse.
Why am I getting a "Connection Error" message when trying to solve a reCAPTCHA?
This error message appears when there is a problem with your internet connection, or the Google servers are down. Try reloading the page or restarting your device.
Can reCAPTCHA be bypassed?
It is highly unlikely that reCAPTCHA can be bypassed by bots or automated tools. However, there have been rare cases where it was successful. It is constantly evolving to prevent these attempts.
Can I use reCAPTCHA without a Google account?
No, you need to have a Google account to use reCAPTCHA. It is free and easy to create one if you don't already have it.
How does reCAPTCHA protect my website from spam?
reCAPTCHA uses a combination of advanced algorithms and machine learning technologies to detect and stop spam and abuse attempts on your website.
What is the difference between reCAPTCHA v2 and v3?
reCAPTCHA v2 includes a traditional "I'm not a robot" checkbox and may require the user to solve a puzzle, while v3 runs in the background and determines the likelihood of a user being a bot.
Can reCAPTCHA work on forms with file uploads?
Yes, reCAPTCHA can be used on forms with file uploads. However, it is not possible to validate the files' content using reCAPTCHA.
Are there any fees for using reCAPTCHA on my website?
No, there are no fees for using reCAPTCHA on your website. It is a free service provided by Google.
Can I use reCAPTCHA on multiple websites with one key?
Yes, you can use the same reCAPTCHA key for multiple websites. However, it is recommended to generate a unique key for each site for better tracking and security purposes.
How often should I update my reCAPTCHA keys?
It is recommended to update your reCAPTCHA keys regularly to ensure the latest security measures are in place. This could be every 6 months to a year, depending on your website's traffic.
Can I use reCAPTCHA on non-English websites?
Yes, reCAPTCHA is available in multiple languages and can be used on non-English websites. The user will be presented with a puzzle in their preferred language.
Does reCAPTCHA collect any personal information about users?
No, reCAPTCHA does not collect any personal information about users. It only collects data necessary for identifying and preventing spam and abuse attempts.
What should I do if I suspect someone is abusing my reCAPTCHA?
If you believe someone is abusing your reCAPTCHA, you can report it through the Google reCAPTCHA Help Forum (https://support.google.com/recaptcha/). Google will investigate and take necessary actions to stop the abuse.