How To Fix COM_CATEGORY012 - You are not authorized to change categories

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: COM_CATEGORY - Category

• Message number: 012

• Message text: You are not authorized to change categories

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message COM_CATEGORY012 - You are not authorized to change categories ?

  The SAP error message COM_CATEGORY012 indicates that a user is not authorized to change categories in the system. This typically occurs in the context of SAP's classification system, where users may attempt to modify or assign categories to materials, documents, or other objects.
  Cause:
  
  Authorization Issues: The primary cause of this error is that the user does not have the necessary authorization to change categories. This could be due to missing roles or permissions in the user's profile.
  Configuration Settings: There may be specific configuration settings in the SAP system that restrict category changes based on user roles or organizational units.
  Object Locking: The object (e.g., material or document) may be locked for editing by another user or process, preventing changes to its categories.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Review the user's roles and authorizations in the SAP system. This can be done using transaction code SU53 to analyze the last authorization check or PFCG to manage roles.
  Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations for the relevant object types (e.g., materials, documents) and actions (e.g., change, create).
  
  
  
  Adjust Role Assignments:
  
  If the user lacks the necessary authorizations, work with your SAP security team to assign the appropriate roles or permissions that allow category changes.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration Settings:
  
  Check the configuration settings related to classification and category management. This may involve reviewing settings in transaction codes like CL02 (Change Class) or CL03 (Display Class) to ensure that the user is allowed to make changes.
  
  
  
  Check for Object Locking:
  
  Verify if the object is locked by another user or process. You can use transaction code SM12 to check for locks and see if the object is currently being edited by someone else.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more detailed information on authorization objects related to category management. This can provide insights into specific authorization objects that may need to be included in user roles.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Authorization Objects: The relevant authorization objects for category management in SAP may include C_COMC_CATEG (for category management) and others depending on the specific context (e.g., material management).
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like CL01 (Create Class), CL02 (Change Class), and CL03 (Display Class) for managing classifications and categories.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message, as there may be patches or updates that address specific authorization issues.
  
  If the problem persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or security team for further investigation.