Example
{
  "meta": {
    "requestId": "req_2c9a0jf23l4k567"
  },
  "error": {
    "detail": "The resource you are attempting to modify is protected and cannot be changed",
    "status": 403,
    "title": "Forbidden",
    "type": "https://unkey.com/docs/api-reference/errors-v2/unkey/application/protected_resource"
  }
}

​
What Happened?

This error occurs when you attempt to modify or delete a resource that is marked as protected in the Unkey system. Protected resources have a special status that prevents them from being changed or removed, typically because they are system resources, defaults, or otherwise critical to proper system operation. Common scenarios that trigger this error:
  • Attempting to delete a default API or workspace
  • Trying to modify system-created roles or permissions
  • Attempting to change protected settings or configurations
  • Trying to remove or alter resources that are required for system integrity
Here’s an example of a request that might trigger this error: 
# Attempting to delete a protected default API
curl -X DELETE https://api.unkey.com/v1/apis.deleteApi \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer unkey_YOUR_API_KEY" \
  -d '{
    "apiId": "api_default_protected"
  }'

​
How To Fix

Since protected resources are deliberately shielded from modification, the solution is usually to work with or around them rather than trying to change them:
  1. Work with the protected resource: Use the resource as-is and build your workflows around it
  2. Create a new resource: Instead of modifying a protected resource, create a new one with your desired configuration
  3. Use alternatives: Look for alternative ways to achieve your goal without modifying protected resources
  4. Contact support: If you believe you have a legitimate need to modify a protected resource, contact Unkey support
For example, instead of deleting a protected API, you might create a new one: 
curl -X POST https://api.unkey.com/v2/apis.createApi \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer unkey_YOUR_API_KEY" \
  -d '{
    "name": "My Custom API"
  }'

​
Important Notes

  • Protected resources are designated as such for system stability and security reasons
  • Even with admin or owner permissions, protected resources typically cannot be modified
  • This protection is separate from permission-based restrictions and applies even to workspace owners
  • The protection status of a resource is not typically exposed in API responses until you try to modify it