How To Fix DS014 - Characters '&' are not allowed

DS014 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DS - Messages for Editing Text Elements in ABAP Programs

• Message number: 014

• Message text: Characters '&' are not allowed

INCLUDE 'DS015' OBJECT DOKU ID NA

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DS014 - Characters '&' are not allowed ?

  The SAP error message DS014, which states "Characters '&' are not allowed," typically occurs when you are trying to input or process data that contains the ampersand character (&). This character is often reserved for special functions in SAP, such as variable substitution or formatting, and its presence in certain fields can lead to errors.
  
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Characters: The ampersand (&) is not allowed in specific fields or data entries, such as names, descriptions, or other text fields.
  Data Import/Export: If you are importing or exporting data (e.g., through a file upload), the presence of the & character in the data can trigger this error.
  Custom Programs or Reports: If you are using custom ABAP programs or reports, the code may not handle the & character properly, leading to this error.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  Remove or Replace the Character: Check the data you are trying to input and remove or replace the ampersand character with an acceptable alternative