How to fix 'Sorry, no manipulations with clipboard allowed' on Mac

Many Mac users have experienced an error message: "Sorry, no manipulations with clipboard allowed."

What does it mean? If this error pops up, you will not be able to use copy/paste. We copy and paste all kinds of files every single day. From text files to videos and images, to name a few. Most Mac users face this issue at some point, and here, in this article, we will share a few simple tips that will help you get rid of it.

How to fix the "Sorry, no manipulations with clipboard allowed" error

You will find a few simple ways to help you get rid of the error so that you can continue using copy/paste the usual way. Without further ado, let's move to some solutions.

1. Restart your computer

When you notice an error on your Mac, including this one, or when your computer behaves strangely, the best way to approach the issue is by restarting the computer. Sometimes, it could be just a small bug that will be gone right after you restart your computer.

To perform a restart, click on the Apple icon in the top-left corner, and when the drop-down menu shows up, click on Restart.

2. Use Activity Monitor to fix "Sorry, No Manipulations With Clipboard Allowed Error."

If the previous solution didn't fix the issue, it is time to use Activity Monitor. Follow the steps below:

• Go to Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor ( Or, Search for "Activity Monitor" with Spotlight search)
• Click on the Search box
• Type pboard

• You'll see pboard under Process Name
• Highlight it then click on the (x) in the top panel
• Now Click "Force Quit"

Once you are done with this, close the Activity Monitor and then try using copy/paste.

3. Use Terminal

You can use Terminal to fix the issue. Here is what you need to do:

• Go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal (Or, Search for "Terminal" with Spotlight search)
• Now type killall pboard

• Press Enter
• Finally, exit the Terminal.

4. Update your mac To Fix "Sorry, No Manipulations With Clipboard Allowed Problem."

The next step is to check for updates. Here is how you can update your Mac:

• Click on the Apple icon in the top-left corner of the screen
• Click on System Preferences from your Dock.
• Now click "Software update."
• Once the update is available, you will see the option "Upgrade Now or Restart Now" Click on it.

FAQ

What is a Clipboard?

The clipboard is a buffer that some operating systems provide for short-term storage and transfer between application programs. The clipboard is usually temporary and unnamed, and its contents reside in the computer's RAM.

Reference

1. The clipboard history on a Windows 10 - Business Insider

2. Clipboard in Windows - Microsoft