"The message interface has returned an unknown error" error message when you try to send an e-mail message in Outlook (235116)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Outlook 97, when used with:
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 95
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 98
  • Microsoft Outlook 98, when used with:
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 95
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 98
  • Microsoft Outlook 2000, when used with:
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 95
    • the operating system: Microsoft Windows 98
  • Microsoft Exchange Server 5.5

This article was previously published under Q235116

SYMPTOMS

If you send a message, the following error message may be displayed:
The message interface has returned an unknown error. If the problem persists, restart Outlook.

CAUSE

The message that you tried to send is addressed to a user or personal distribution list that does not reside in your personal address book or does not reside in the global address list.

This may happen if you log on to a mailbox and try to send a message that was previously addressed by using a personal address book for that mailbox.

RESOLUTION

The user who created the original message must send that message from the computer where the personal address book that contains the personal distribution list is stored.

MORE INFORMATION

If you try to save the personal distribution list that is listed in the To field to your personal address book by clicking Add to personal address book, the following error message is displayed:
Cannot perform the requested operation. The command selected is not valid for this recipient.

Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:4/28/2005
Keywords:kbemail kbsendmail kbprb KB235116