Table of Contents
Why can’t I open encrypted emails in Outlook 365 Classic right now?
Microsoft Resolves Outlook 365 “Encrypt Only” Access Error
Microsoft has released a critical fix for a bug in Outlook 365 Classic that prevented users from reading encrypted emails. If your organization relies on email encryption for security, you should review your current Office build immediately to restore functionality.
The Technical Issue
Users on the Current Channel Version 2511 (Build 19426.20218) experienced failures when attempting to open messages protected with “Encrypt Only” permissions. Rather than displaying the email body, Outlook presented an attachment named message_v2.rpmsg.
Recipients typically encountered this error message in the reading pane:
“This message with limited permissions cannot be displayed in the reading pane until you confirm your credentials. Open the item to read its contents and confirm your credentials.”
Despite legitimate credentials, the content remained inaccessible. This issue specifically affected the “Encrypt Only” setting, which usually permits forwarding and printing, distinguishing it from stricter rights management restrictions.
Official Fix and Rollout Schedule
Microsoft confirmed the resolution on January 29, 2026. The patch deployment schedule depends on your specific Office update channel. You must update to the following builds to implement the fix:
- Beta Channel: Available immediately in Version 2602 (Build 19720.15160).
- Current Channel (Preview): Available early February 2026 in Version 2602 (Build 19725.20000).
- Current Channel: Scheduled for February 24, 2026, in Version 2602 (Build 19725.20000).
Advisory and Workarounds
If you operate on the Current Channel and cannot wait until the February 24 rollout, you have two options:
- Switch Channels: Administrators can temporarily move critical users to the Current Channel (Preview) to grab the fix early.
- Rollback: You can revert Outlook 365 Classic to the previous stable release (Build 19426.20186). This version predates the bug and handles encrypted messages correctly.
Verify your Office build today to ensure your team maintains access to sensitive communications.