How do I fix the “potentially dangerous value detected” error message?

When completing a checklist, incident, or other record, you may see the error message “A potentially dangerous value was detected from the client” when you try to save the record. 

This error occurs when a free-text field contains text that the system cannot safely process, such as

• • unsupported special characters (<, #, & and others) or
  • text copied from external sources (Microsoft Word or Excel, emails, PDF documents, or other systems) that contains hidden formatting or non-standard coding.

To resolve this issue, review all free-text fields, like descriptions, comments, etc., and try the following:

1. 1. Remove or replace special characters with standard text.
   2. Use plain-text entry:
      • If pasting from another program, use Ctrl+Shift+V, or
      • Paste the text into Notepad first, and then copy and paste it into the field
   3. Retype the text directly into the field.

If you’ve taken all of the steps above and the issue persists, contact your system administrator or Customer Support and be prepared to provide the exact text you were trying to enter, for troubleshooting.