How to Open a Microsoft Purview Encrypted Email

Modified on Thu, 11 Dec, 2025 at 8:54 AM

How to Open a Microsoft Purview Encrypted Email


You may receive a message that looks like this:

"You’ve received an encrypted message."


Follow these steps:


If you're using Outlook (Desktop or Web):

  1. Open the email as you normally would.
  2. If you're using Outlook and signed in with your Microsoft account, the message will open automatically with the encryption applied.
  3. If prompted, click “Read the message” or “Sign in to view the message.”
  4. You may see a banner at the top like:

"This message is encrypted. Only recipients with permission can view it."

 You're done — no extra steps needed!


If you're using Gmail, Yahoo, or another email provider (non-Outlook):

  1. Open the email and click the “Read the message” button.
  2. A new browser tab will open with a Microsoft sign-in page.
  3. Choose one of the following options:
    • Sign in with a Microsoft account (e.g., Outlook.com, Hotmail, Live.com).
    • Use a one-time passcode (click this if you don’t have a Microsoft account).
  4. If you choose a one-time passcode:
    • A new code will be emailed to you.
    • Enter the code in the browser page to open the message.

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