Unknown error when placing or linking PDF into illustrator.

I keep getting this message when I try to place a PDF into illustrator or relink it. Even if the file is already created all of a sudden it won't place the PDF. 

An Unkown error is detected. 

I'm using a new IMAC Apple M1 16gb of ram. this is not happening on either of the other intel systems. We need to be able to place the PDF's for certain templates and printing templates and it's increasingly frustrating I keep getting this error on a brand new machine while it works on older machines. 

We are using the same settings and doesn't seem to be a file name issue it's not every time but certain files. One instance it was the 2nd, 4th and 5th page of a document but the rest were fine.  

Same image will place into indesign no problem.