I am working on a web service the needs to return JSON data. I read that I should use application/json but am not sure what problems this may cause?
For example, w
Let's consider IE. Say you have a hidden iFrame which you use to request a file download. For example
Now, the server may send a JSON-encoded error message like
{
error: 'File 123 does not exist',
retryLater: false
}
If that error message is sent as application/json, a download dialog will appear, because the JSON text is mistaken for the actual file.
On the other hand, a MIME type of text/plain will cause the message to be rendered in the iFrame, and you can extract it, and transform it into a fancy pop-up or something using JScript.
(Edit)
Real-world example: EXTJS Fileupload - Problem with IE8 security bar