Using the f=json parameter in a service URL returns incomplete and unformatted JSON in ArcGIS Server

Description

In some cases, utilizing the f=json parameter in a service URL to search for an item or user in ArcGIS Portal Directory returns incomplete and unformatted JSON. In this example, typing the following URL to retrieve all the user information returns incomplete information, as shown below.

https://machine.domain.com/webadaptor/sharing/rest/community/users/<user>?f=json

The image below shows an example of the complete formatted JSON.

Cause

This is by design. Using the f=json parameter in the URL is part of a supported workflow that requires a token to view all data. The parameter without the token returns an incomplete JSON for security purposes.

Solution or Workaround

Use the f=pjson parameter

In the web browser, use the f=pjson parameter. In this example, the following URL displays the complete and formatted information.

https://machine.domain.com/webadaptor/sharing/rest/community/users/<user>?f=pjson

Acquire the token

In ArcGIS Server, acquire the token to access the complete JSON. Refer to ArcGIS Server: Acquire ArcGIS Server tokens for instructions. After acquiring the token, add the token after the f=json parameter in the URL.

This is the full URL with the acquired token:

https://machine.domain.com/webadaptor/sharing/rest/community/users/<user>?f=json&token=<acquired_token>