How to Fix ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME Error?

The ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME error stands as a major browser problem which blocks users from reaching websites through specific links. Your browser shows this error because it fails to identify or process specific URL schemes or protocols which prevents you from accessing the desired content.

What is ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME Error?

The ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME error message appears when your browser fails to detect the URL scheme present in the destination address you attempt to access. Your browser or system encounters this error when websites implement custom protocols including tel:, mailto:, whatsapp: and other application-specific schemes that your browser or system cannot recognize.

The ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME is commonly a Chromium bug. The error has persisted as a major problem since Chrome 40. The error appears in different browsers even though it primarily affects Chrome-based browsers.

Common Causes of ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME Error

The identification of fundamental causes enables users to select appropriate solutions.

Impact Statistics

9 Proven Methods to Resolve ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME Error

Method 1: Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

The browser cache contains downloaded content which can become corrupted or outdated thus triggering this warning. The solution to this issue typically involves clearing both your cache and cookies.

Steps for Chrome:

Method 2: Disable Chrome Extensions Temporarily

The browser sometimes misinterprets URL schemes because of specific Chrome extensions. The error can be diagnosed by disabling all extensions to determine if the issue continues.

Method 3: Create a New Chrome User Profile

A corrupted user profile can cause persistent URL scheme errors:

Method 4: Disable Hardware Acceleration

Hardware acceleration can sometimes interfere with URL processing:

Method 5: Try a Different Browser

The UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME error requires only basic steps to resolve through URL scheme verification and browser configuration adjustments and website owner contact.

Test the same link in:

Method 6: Check URL Formatting

Most of the time, you simply type in the protocol incorrectly. The error occurs when you omit the double slash (//) and mistakenly add an extra “p” to “http” or “https”.

Common formatting mistakes:

Method 7: Install Required Applications

For specific URL schemes, ensure the corresponding application is installed:

Method 8: Reset Chrome Settings

If other methods fail, reset Chrome to default settings:

Method 9: For Developers – Fix WebView Implementation

Developers need to understand how to fix this issue to ensure their app’s WebView operates without errors. The solution for this issue requires modification of your URL href code. Your application’s HTML requires a target attribute to define the browser opening behavior.

Developer solutions:

Best Tips to Avoid ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME errors?

To avoid future ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME errors:

When to Contact Support

Contact website support if:

Final Thoughts

The ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME error remains easy to fix through the methods described above. Begin with basic solutions starting from cache clearing and extension disabling before moving to advanced solutions if required. The initial few methods work for most users so this issue remains manageable instead of becoming a persistent problem.

The error functions as a protective measure to stop your browser from processing unsafe or unidentified protocols. The systematic troubleshooting process enables you to fix the issue while keeping your browsing secure.

FAQs about ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME Error

What causes ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME error?

The ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME error occurs when browsers cannot recognize the protocol prefix of a URL. Common causes include incorrect URL formatting, missing “http://” or “https://” prefixes, or using unsupported protocol schemes.

How do I fix ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME in Chrome?

Users can fix this error by adding the correct protocol prefix (http:// or https://) to the URL. Clearing the browser cache and updating Chrome to the latest version can also resolve this issue.

Can malware cause ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME?

Malware infections can modify browser settings and cause ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME errors. Users should run an antivirus scan and remove suspicious browser extensions to fix this issue.

Why does ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME appear in Android apps?

Android apps show this error when they try to open links with incorrect or unsupported URL schemes. Users can fix this by updating the app, clearing app cache, or reinstalling the application.

Is ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME a security risk?

The ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME error itself is not a security risk. The error prevents browsers from opening potentially harmful or incorrectly formatted links, which helps protect users.

How to prevent ERR_UNKNOWN_URL_SCHEME errors?

Users can prevent this error by double-checking URL formats, using correct protocol prefixes, keeping browsers updated, and avoiding suspicious links or browser extensions.

Priya Mervana

Verified Web Security Experts

Priya Mervana is working at SSLInsights.com as a web security expert with over 10 years of experience writing about encryption, SSL certificates, and online privacy. She aims to make complex security topics easily understandable for everyday internet users.