This article covers guidance for the PEC-AB-0004 error message. You can find guidance for our other error codes here: PEC Errors.
What does it mean?
This error appears when you’re attempting to access studies on Prolific from an IP address which has flagged on our systems as being potentially risky.
We're really sorry and we know this isn't your fault. We're trying to improve this and make all safe connections accessible on Prolific. But for now, you may not be able to take studies from this particular internet connection.
What can I do?
- Try an alternative network (such as at a friend’s house, or a mobile data/hotspot).
- If you're on a mobile, you may be able to get a new IP address by simply restarting the device.
- You can also try resetting your router to get a new IP address, though it's possible that this may be flagged too.
We also recommend the following to enable you to complete studies on Prolific:
- Make sure you're using one of our supported browsers (the most recent versions of: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera and Edge. For mobile: Chrome, Android browser, iOS Safari, Firefox Mobile and Opera Mobile.
- Turn off any VPNs and proxies from your browser/device while on Prolific, including private relays. Your place of work or education may also be using VPNs or proxies as standard.
- If you use an Apple device, please check to see if iCloud Private Relay is enabled, as this can sometimes cause issues. Find out more from Apple here: https://support.apple.com/en-gb/102602
I'm still having problems
If you've followed the troubleshooting guidance above and you're still having difficulties, click below to send a message to our Support Team.