Knowledge

ERROR_INVALID_SECURITY_DESCR - 1338 (0x53A)

The security descriptor structure is invalid.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Background

The ERROR_INVALID_SECURITY_DESCR error code indicates that a security descriptor structure provided to an API function is invalid. Security descriptors are used in Windows for defining access control lists and ownership information on objects such as files, directories, and registry keys.

Error Details

Meaning of the Error Code

This error typically occurs when an application or system component attempts to use a security descriptor that does not conform to the expected format or structure. The security descriptor is a complex data structure used by Windows for managing access control and ownership information on objects.

Common Causes

  • Invalid Parameter Values: Providing incorrect or malformed values in the security descriptor.
  • Incorrect Object Type: Using a security descriptor intended for one type of object (e.g., file) with another type (e.g., directory).
  • Exceeding Limits: Attempting to use a security descriptor that exceeds system-defined limits.

Common Causes

The error can be caused by several factors, including:

  • Providing an invalid or improperly formatted security descriptor.
  • Using the wrong type of security descriptor for the object being accessed.

Real-World Context

This error is commonly encountered in scenarios where applications need to manage access control and ownership information on various types of objects. For example, when a file system operation requires setting or retrieving security descriptors, an invalid descriptor can lead to this error.

Is This Error Critical?

The criticality of the ERROR_INVALID_SECURITY_DESCR depends on the context in which it occurs. In most cases, it is not a critical failure and can be resolved by correcting the security descriptor used. However, if the issue persists or affects system stability, further investigation may be necessary.

How to Diagnose

To diagnose this error, follow these steps:

  1. Review Operation Context: Ensure that the operation context is correct for the object being accessed.
  2. Validate Parameters: Verify that all parameters passed to the API function are valid and correctly formatted.
  3. Confirm Object Types: Confirm that the security descriptor type matches the object type (e.g., file, directory).
  4. Verify Input Data: Check if the input data is correct and not corrupted.

How to Resolve

To resolve this error, take the following actions:

  • Correct any invalid or improperly formatted parameters.
  • Adjust the operation context to match the expected usage of security descriptors.
  • Restore any corrupted data if applicable.
  • Retry the operation with valid inputs.

Developer Notes

When working with security descriptors in Windows API functions, ensure that all parameters are correctly formatted and that the descriptor type matches the object being accessed. Always validate input data and handle errors appropriately to avoid such issues.

Related Errors

FAQ

Q: What does the ERROR_INVALID_SECURITY_DESCR error mean?

A: It indicates that the security descriptor provided to an API function is invalid and does not conform to the expected format or structure.

Q: How can I prevent this error from occurring?

A: Ensure that all parameters passed to functions involving security descriptors are valid, correctly formatted, and match the object type being accessed.

Q: Can this error affect system stability?

A: Generally, it is not a critical failure but may indicate issues with input data or incorrect usage. Further investigation may be necessary if the issue persists.

Summary

The ERROR_INVALID_SECURITY_DESCR error code indicates that an invalid security descriptor was provided to an API function. This can occur due to various reasons such as incorrect parameter values, mismatched object types, or corrupted data. By carefully validating input parameters and ensuring correct usage of security descriptors, developers can prevent this error from occurring.