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ERROR_EXE_CANNOT_MODIFY_SIGNED_BINARY
A signed executable cannot be modified in place
ERROR_EXE_CANNOT_MODIFY_SIGNED_BINARY is a Win32 result associated with patching, resource editing, instrumentation, or deployment of signed binaries.
What the result means
Windows refused to modify an executable image because it is digitally signed.
What to check
- Confirm that the target really is the intended executable and inspect its Authenticode signature.
- Check whether the tool is trying to update resources, headers, imports, or embedded metadata.
- Modify an unsigned build artifact before signing rather than editing the deployed signed image.
- Preserve the original file and verify the replacement signature after rebuilding.
Recommended handling
Any byte-level modification normally invalidates the existing signature. Rebuild the binary through the trusted build pipeline and sign the final artifact; do not bypass signature protection on production systems.
References
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