OL98: Error Message Attempting to Attach File with Complex Path to Message

You are attempting to attach a file to a mail message in Microsoft Outlook 98 and receive the following error message:

You are attempting to attach a file that is in a nested folder location with a complex path. A complex path is defined as one greater than 128 characters and includes long names in some folders.

Choose one of the following methods.

Method 1

Install the Updated Patch for Outlook 98 Security Issue.

This patch is available at the following Web Address:

Method 2

To successfully attach the file, follow these steps:

1. Click the Start button, point to Programs, and then click Windows Explorer.
2. On the Tools menu, point to Find, and then click Files or Folders. Type the name of the file you wish to attach, and then click Find Now.
3. From the Find window, copy the file to a folder location closer to the root of the hard drive. Ensure that the path to the new location is less than 128 characters.
4. Return to the mail message. On the Insert menu, click File. Locate the file in its new location, and then click OK.

You will no longer receive an error and you will be able to send the message.

A supported fix is now available, but has not been fully regression-tested and should be applied only to systems experiencing this specific problem. Unless you are severely impacted by this specific problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the next Service Pack that contains this fix. Contact Microsoft Technical Support for more information.