Why do I see locks instead of images in Canvas as a student?

Students may encounter locked images in Canvas due to unpublished files or folders. The issue can only be resolved by the instructor updating the file visibility settings.

Quick Links: | Environment | Solution | Root Cause |

You may see lock icons instead of images or media files in your Canvas course. This means that access to the file is restricted, and you are unable to view the content. This issue can occur when files are unpublished or placed in a folder that is unpublished by the instructor.

Environment

• Canvas
• Images or media embedded in course pages, assignments, or quizzes

Solution

If you encounter locked images or media files in your course:

1. Contact your instructor and inform them about the locked files or media.
2. Provide details about where in the course the locked files appear (e.g., specific page, assignment, or quiz).
3. The instructor can adjust the file or folder settings to allow access.

Once the instructor updates the file settings, you should be able to view the media files in the course.

For instructors encountering this problem, see our instructor article for this issue: Why do images show as locked in Canvas student view?

Root Cause

When a file or folder is unpublished in Canvas, students are unable to view or access the content. Instructors must adjust the visibility of the files or folders for students to have access.

Still need help? Reach out to Canvas support for further assistance.