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Some sites (often with Flash) interfere with keyboard shortcuts, so Firefox keys won't work

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I've noticed, with increasing annoyance, that sites that have some embedded media (often but not always Flash, so far as I can tell) prevent Firefox keyboard shortcuts from being recognized. CTRL+T, CTRL+W, etc just don't work; other keys, like F12 for Firebug, are also "blocked." Yes, you can use the mouse, but it requires effort where none should be needed. Any suggestions on what I can look for with Firebug or other add-ins?

I've noticed, with increasing annoyance, that sites that have some embedded media (often but not always Flash, so far as I can tell) prevent Firefox keyboard shortcuts from being recognized. CTRL+T, CTRL+W, etc just don't work; other keys, like F12 for Firebug, are also "blocked." Yes, you can use the mouse, but it requires effort where none should be needed. Any suggestions on what I can look for with Firebug or other add-ins?

All Replies (4)

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You could try the Flashblock extension.

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Thanks. Have it, use it (v 1.5.15.1). Whatever interferes seems to bypass Flashblock. It's been a long, long time since I learned about CSS, can CSS now specify reserved shortcut keys?

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Look for Firebug on this page. It is listed as a problematic extension.

http://kb.mozillazine.org/Problematic_extensions
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Thanks, I use Firebug at work daily, but usually don't have it even installed in my personal Firefox profile at home. I'll start to pay attention if this occurs only when Firebug is installed and enabled.

That page seems a good reference for looking up other plug-ins' reported issues.