How To Fix SF001 - Check search criterion (validity of special characters)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SF - SAPfind: Message Texts

• Message number: 001

• Message text: Check search criterion (validity of special characters)

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SF001 - Check search criterion (validity of special characters) ?

  The SAP error message SF001, which states "Check search criterion (validity of special characters)," typically occurs when a user is trying to perform a search or query in SAP and has entered invalid characters or special characters that are not allowed in the search criteria.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Characters: The search criteria may contain special characters that are not permitted in the context of the search operation.
  Incorrect Formatting: The input may not adhere to the expected format for the specific field or search operation.
  Field Restrictions: Certain fields may have restrictions on the types of characters that can be used (e.g., alphanumeric only).
  User Input Error: The user may have inadvertently included spaces, punctuation, or other characters that are not valid.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Input: Check the search criteria you have entered and ensure that it does not contain any special characters that are not allowed. Common invalid characters include symbols like @, #, $, %, etc.
  Use Valid Characters: Stick to alphanumeric characters (A-Z, 0-9) and any other characters that are explicitly allowed for the specific search field.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help files for the specific transaction or module you are using to understand the valid input formats.
  Test with Simple Queries: Start with a very simple search criterion to see if the error persists. Gradually add complexity to identify which part of the input is causing the issue.
  Check Field Settings: If you have access, check the field settings in the SAP configuration to see if there are any restrictions on the characters that can be used.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed. Other users may have encountered the same error and can provide insights or solutions.
  Transaction Codes: If you are using a specific transaction code, ensure that you are familiar with its requirements and limitations regarding search criteria.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to contact your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.