Outlook 2021 image file not able to view in message body

IT Department 0 Reputation points
2026-10-05T07:24:12.45+00:00

Outlook 2021 image file not able to view in message body, The Linked image cannot be displayed error in an Outlook email message

Outlook | Windows | Classic Outlook for Windows | For business
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  1. Liora 2,090 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-05T07:56:17.3066667+00:00

    Dear @IT Department,

    I hope you’re having a good day. 

    The error: "The linked image cannot be displayed. The file may have been moved, renamed, or deleted. Verify that the link points to the correct file and location."

    usually indicates that Outlook cannot access the image source. This can occur if the image is hosted externally, the image link is no longer available, Outlook is blocking external image downloads, or the image reference itself is invalid.

    As an initial troubleshooting step, I would recommend:

    • Checking whether the same message displays correctly in Outlook on the web.
    • If available, selecting Download Pictures when viewing the message.

    Reviewing Microsoft's troubleshooting article for this specific error: The Linked image cannot be displayed error - Outlook | Microsoft Learn

    It would also be helpful to know:

    1. Does this happen with all emails or only certain messages?
    2. Does the issue affect one user or multiple users?
    3. Are the missing images part of a signature, newsletter, or a regular email message?

    If possible, please share a screenshot of the error (with any sensitive information removed) and the Outlook 2021 build number. That will help narrow down whether this is an Outlook configuration issue, a blocked image source, or a build-specific problem.

    Please understand that initial response does not always resolve the issue immediately. However, with your help and more detailed information, we can work together to find a solution.   

    Looking forward to hearing back from you with any updates or additional details.  

    Warm regards,  

    If the answer is helpful, please select "Yes, accept answer". If you have any questions or new updates, please feel free to comment below. 

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  2. AI answer

    2026-10-05T07:24:28.5633333+00:00

    This error in classic Outlook is commonly caused by one of these settings:

    1. BlockHTTPimages is set to 1
      • This causes Outlook to block images whose source points to a URL.
      • To fix it:
        1. Exit Outlook.
        2. Open Registry Editor:
          • Press Windows key + R.
          • Type regedit.exe, then press Enter.
        3. Check for BlockHTTPimages in one of these locations:
          • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\x.0\Common
          • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\policies\Microsoft\Office\x.0\Common
        4. If BlockHTTPimages exists and its value is 1, delete that value.
        5. Exit Registry Editor and restart Outlook.
      • Important: Registry changes are risky. Back up the registry first. If the value is under the Policies hive, Group Policy may restore it, and an administrator must change the policy.
    2. Do not save encrypted pages to disk is enabled
      • This can cause HTTPS-linked images to show a red X and the same linked image error.
      • To fix it:
        1. Exit Outlook.
        2. Open Internet Options.
        3. Select the Advanced tab.
        4. Under Security, clear Do not save encrypted pages to disk.
        5. Select OK.
        6. Start Outlook again.
      • If the setting is greyed out, it is managed by Group Policy and must be changed by an administrator.
    3. If the issue is with images in signatures, newsletters, or embedded message content in classic Outlook
      • A known issue affected supported versions of classic Outlook after the May 12, 2026 updates.
      • To check for that issue:
        1. Open the email in classic Outlook.
        2. On the ribbon, select Move > Actions > Other Actions > View Source.
        3. Search for cid within the src attribute in a v:imagedata tag.
      • That issue is marked Fixed.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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