How To Fix K6660 - Error: Locking the target data area (data locked by user &1)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: K6 - EC-EIS/EC-BP data basis: Data entry and collection

• Message number: 660

• Message text: Error: Locking the target data area (data locked by user &1)

What causes this issue?

In automatic planning, the planning area should be locked against
posting by other users. For performance reasons, only version and
plan/actual indicators are locked. Other users may also have locked the
area for processing.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Repeat the run later.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message K6660 - Error: Locking the target data area (data locked by user &1) ?

  The SAP error message K6660 indicates that a user is trying to access or modify a target data area that is currently locked by another user. This typically occurs in the context of financial or controlling (CO) transactions where data integrity is crucial, and concurrent access is restricted to prevent inconsistencies.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  A user attempts to execute a transaction that requires access to a specific data area (e.g., cost center, internal order) that is already locked by another user.
  The locking mechanism in SAP is designed to prevent multiple users from making changes to the same data simultaneously, which could lead to data corruption or inconsistencies.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the K6660 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Identify the Locking User: 
  
  Check the user ID mentioned in the error message (e.g., &1). This user is currently holding the lock on the data area.
  You can use transaction code SM12 to view and manage locks. In SM12, you can search for the user ID to see which locks are held.
  
  
  
  Wait for the Lock to be Released:
  
  If the locking user is actively working on the data, it may be best to wait until they complete their transaction and the lock is released automatically.
  
  
  
  Contact the Locking User:
  
  If the locking user is known and available, you can reach out to them to see if they can complete their transaction or release the lock.
  
  
  
  Forcefully Release the Lock (if necessary):
  
  If the locking user is not available and the lock is preventing critical work, an administrator can forcefully release the lock using transaction code SM12. However, this should be done with caution, as it may lead to data inconsistencies if the locking user is in the middle of a transaction.
  
  
  
  Review Locking Strategy:
  
  If this error occurs frequently, it may be worth reviewing the locking strategy and transaction processes to minimize conflicts. This could involve scheduling certain tasks at different times or improving communication among users.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage locks.
  SM21: System log, which can provide additional context about system activities.
  ST22: Dump analysis, in case the error is related to a program dump.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common issues.
  
  
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to handle locks and understand the importance of completing transactions promptly to avoid locking issues.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the K6660 error effectively.