How to Get Rid of Validation Error on Pinterest?
Pinterest is a powerful platform for sharing images, videos, and ideas. However, users often encounter validation errors when trying to upload content, claim a website, or set up Rich Pins. These errors can be frustrating, but they are fixable. This guide will walk you through understanding and resolving Pinterest validation errors step by step.
Understanding Pinterest Validation Errors
Pinterest uses validation checks to ensure that content meets its guidelines. These errors occur when the system detects an issue with metadata, formatting, or authentication.
Common Causes of Validation Errors
- Incorrect Metadata – Missing or misformatted metadata can cause errors.
- Broken or Blocked Links – If your URL is broken or blocked, Pinterest won’t validate it.
- Slow or Unresponsive Website – If Pinterest bots can’t access your site, validation fails.
- Rich Pin Issues – Missing Open Graph or Schema markup can trigger errors.
- Claiming Website Problems – Incorrect DNS settings or HTML tag placement may cause validation failure.
Understanding the exact cause of the error is the first step toward fixing it.
How to Fix Pinterest Validation Errors
Now that you know the common causes, let’s dive into the solutions.
1. Check and Correct Metadata
Pinterest relies on metadata to validate Rich Pins and other features. Ensure that:
- Your Open Graph tags are correctly formatted.
- You have valid Schema markup.
- The metadata includes the correct title, description, and image.
To check, you can use Pinterest’s Rich Pins Validator.
How to Fix Metadata Issues
- Edit your website’s HTML and add the correct Open Graph tags.
- Use a plugin like Yoast SEO (for WordPress) to manage metadata.
- Ensure that every page has unique metadata.
2. Fix Broken or Blocked Links
If your link doesn’t work, Pinterest won’t validate it.
How to Fix Link Issues
- Open your link in an incognito window to check if it loads.
- Ensure the link is not blocked by robots.txt or a firewall.
- If it’s a redirect, confirm it leads to the right page.
Use tools like Google Search Console to diagnose blocked links.
3. Improve Website Speed and Accessibility
Pinterest bots must access your website to validate it. If your site is slow, validation may fail.
How to Improve Site Speed
- Use a tool like Google PageSpeed Insights to check performance.
- Optimize images and enable caching.
- Use a reliable hosting provider with fast servers.
4. Fix Rich Pin Errors
Rich Pins provide additional context to Pins. If they aren’t working, validation errors occur.
How to Fix Rich Pin Issues
- Ensure you have the correct Open Graph and Schema markup.
- Test your page using the Rich Pins Validator.
- Apply for Rich Pins again after fixing errors.
5. Verify and Claim Your Website
Pinterest requires website verification to enable certain features.
How to Verify Your Website
- Log into Pinterest and go to Settings > Claim.
- Choose a verification method: HTML tag, DNS record, or file upload.
- Follow the steps provided and click Verify.
- If verification fails, double-check that the tag or file is correctly placed.
6. Clear Pinterest Cache
Sometimes, errors persist because Pinterest caches old data.
How to Clear Pinterest Cache
- Go to the Pinterest Debug Tool.
- Enter your URL and refresh the cache.
- Try revalidating your website or content.
7. Contact Pinterest Support
If none of the above steps work, reach out to Pinterest Support.
How to Contact Pinterest Support
- Visit the Pinterest Help Center.
- Select Business & Ads > Technical Issues.
- Submit a support request detailing your issue.
FAQs About Pinterest Validation Errors
1. What does a Pinterest validation error mean?
It means that Pinterest encountered an issue with your metadata, website, or links, preventing validation.
2. How long does it take to fix a validation error?
It depends on the issue. Minor fixes can be immediate, while website changes may take hours or days.
3. Can I still use Pinterest if I don’t fix validation errors?
Yes, but some features like Rich Pins, website claiming, or ad promotions may not work properly.
4. Do I need coding skills to fix Pinterest validation errors?
Not always. Plugins and tools can help non-technical users fix common issues.
5. What should I do if Pinterest validation keeps failing?
- Double-check your metadata and links.
- Clear Pinterest’s cache.
- Contact Pinterest Support for help.
Conclusion
Pinterest validation errors can be frustrating, but they are solvable. By fixing metadata, checking links, improving site speed, and verifying your website correctly, you can resolve most issues. If problems persist, Pinterest Support is always available to help. Follow these steps carefully, and soon, you’ll have a smooth, error-free Pinterest experience.
