How do I open a protected message?
Applies To
Outlook for Microsoft 365 Outlook 2024 Outlook 2021 Outlook 2019 Outlook 2016 Outlook on the web New Outlook for Windows Outlook for Android Outlook for iOSProtected messages allow the sender to set specific permissions on a message, such as Do Not Forward or Do Not Print. If you receive a protected email message sent to the work or school account you use with Microsoft 365 in any Outlook platform, the message should open like any other message. You'll see a banner at the top of the message that informs you of any restrictions on the message.
If you're using a different email account or email program, you may receive a notification that you've received a protected message and need to take additional action.
Reading a protected message with a work or school email account in Outlook or Outlook on the web
Desktop/Browser:
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If you're using a work or school account with Microsoft 365 in any desktop or online version of Outlook (new or classic Outlook, Outlook for Mac, Outlook on the web or Outlook.com) you shouldn't have to do anything special to read your message.
Mobile app:
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If you have a work or school account with Microsoft 365 and you're using the Outlook for iOS or Outlook for Android, the message should just open.
Reading a protected message with Gmail
Desktop/Browser:
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Select Click here to read your message.
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Select Sign in with Google.
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You'll be redirected to the Gmail sign-in page. Once you sign in, select Allow.
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Your protected message will display in a new browser tab. You won't be able to view the protected message in the Gmail window.
Mobile app:
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Tap Click here to read your message.
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Tap Sign in with... and sign in to your email account.
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If you get a request for permissions, tap Yes or Allow to view the message.
Reading a protected message with a single-use code
Some email clients and services can't automatically open protected messages. If you have an email account with Yahoo or other Internet Service Provider, you'll need to obtain a single-use code to read the message.
Desktop/Browser:
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Select Read the message.
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You'll be redirected to a page where you can sign in and receive a single-use code.
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Check your email for the single-use code. Enter the code in the browser window, then select Continue to read your message.
Mobile app:
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Tap Click here to read your message > Sign in with a single-use code.
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You'll be redirected to a page where you can sign in and receive a single-use code.
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Check your email for the single-use code and copy it.
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Enter the code in your browser, then select Continue to read your message.
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