‘SignTool Error: An Unexpected Internal Error Has Occurred. Error Information: “Error: SignerSign() Failed.” (-2147024885 / 0x80080206)’

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This is one example of the 08008* code signing-related errors that happen quite often and ends with an error code that looks like a toll-free phone number:

SignTool Error: An Unexpected internal error has occurred. Error information: “Error: SignerSign() failed.” (-2147024885 / 0x80080206)

Be sure to read the error message carefully. This SignTool error appears to be similar to another “SignerSign () failed” error message on the surface, but is a completely different error message. But what causes this error, and what can you do to address it?

Editor’s Note: This article is one in a series of pieces we will publish over the next few weeks that aim to help resolve code signing-related errors for SignTool, Jarsigner, Electron, and Windows.

What This SignTool Error (-2147024885 / 0x80080206) Means

According to Microsoft’s compelling errors list, in this case, the code signing process failed in this case because the content of your package was corrupt. 

Possible Cause(s)

When the error code includes 0x80080206 (APPX_E_CORRUPT_CONTENT), it indicates that you’re trying to add a digital signature to an invalid package.

How to Fix It

Rebuild your package and try signing it again using a valid code signing certificate.

Yeah, sorry… There’s really no other way around it.

Platform(s)/Systems Affected

SignTool.exe (Windows, Visual Studio Developer Command Prompt, Visual Studio Developer PowerShell).