Family Tree Maker 2019 is a popular genealogy software that integrates Ancestry for web searches. Yet, some users are faced with security errors or blank pages during use of this feature. This problem bars direct access to Ancestry records via FTM. Mackiev, the company that developed FTM, is working with Ancestry to fix it. In this blog, we touch on the likely causes and workarounds. Most users depend on FTM’s web search function for their research, so this problem is especially inconvenient. Knowing the reasons and the workarounds will enable users to proceed with their genealogy without significant interruption. Below, we discuss the causes of this problem and how you can bypass it.
Causes of the Security Error or Blank Page Issue
Family Tree Maker 2019 makes it possible for one to search Ancestry records directly without exiting the program. You need to be subscribed to Ancestry and logged into your account within FTM, though. The web search feature comes in via the toolbar in FTM. If you click the “Web Search” tab and choose “Ancestry,” users should be able to search for historical records. But because of some technical issues, a blank page or error page might be shown in place of search results.
How to Solve This Problem?
Until Mackiev and Ancestry implement a permanent solution, you can utilize the following temporary solutions:
1. Employ the FTM Utility Tool:-
- Mackiev has released a utility tool that allows you to modify some of the system settings and resolve this problem.
- Obtain the utility tool from Mackiev’s support website and install it on your computer..
2. Change the Web Search URL:
- In the web search function, look at the address bar.
- If the URL has “ancestry.ca” or “ancestry.co.uk,” change it to “ancestry.com.”
3. Search Ancestry Using a Browser:
- Rather than using FTM’s web search function, conduct Ancestry searches in a web browser such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Safari.
- After you locate pertinent records, add them to your FTM tree manually.
4. Sync Your Tree After You Make Changes:
- If you do update your tree through Ancestry’s website, sync those updates back to FTM via the FamilySync feature.
Conclusion
The blank page or security error in Family Tree Maker 2019’s web search function can be annoying, but there are stopgap measures you can take. To get around this problem until a more permanent solution is made, the user can employ the FTM utility tool, alter the web search URL, or search Ancestry by way of a browser. To obtain additional support, Mackiev’s support department is the go-to source to correct FTM issues. Keeping your software updated and periodically monitoring Mackiev’s support updates can also keep you aware of any new fixes or enhancements. By taking these steps, you will be able to proceed with your genealogy research uninterrupted without the need for unwanted breaks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It is a reported issue concerning security settings and browser compatibility. Mackiev is working on a solution.
You can download and execute the FTM utility tool, change the URL, or simply use a web browser to search Ancestry.
Yes, you may use the FamilySync feature to sync changes done on Ancestry’s website with your Family Tree Maker software.
This problem primarily occurs with FTM 2019 but has also been seen in FTM 2017.
You should reach out to Mackiev’s support staff rather than Ancestry, as Ancestry representatives are not qualified to help with Family Tree Maker issues.
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