> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sifr.sh/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# SIFR-ENCODING-0803: Encoding error handler must be statically known.

> Encoding error handler must be statically known.

`SIFR-ENCODING-0803` belongs to the **Text encoding** diagnostic family. It means: encoding error handler must be statically known.

## Why It Happens

Text conversion behavior must be known at compile time. Use a supported, statically known encoding or error handler.

<Info>
  Use `sifr --explain SIFR-ENCODING-0803` locally to see the renderer's exact message template and any machine-applicable suggestions for the compiler version you are running.
</Info>

## Erroneous Code

```python theme={null}
text = decode(data, "utf-8", handler_name)
```

## How To Fix It

Use a statically known encoding error handler so text conversion remains predictable.

## Fixed Code

```python theme={null}
text = decode(data, "utf-8", "strict")
```

## Details

| Field                  | Value                                                              |
| ---------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| Code                   | `SIFR-ENCODING-0803`                                               |
| Family                 | `ENCODING`                                                         |
| Severity               | Error                                                              |
| Stability              | stable                                                             |
| Owner                  | `sifr_lowering::lower::bytes_methods`                              |
| Representative fixture | `crates/sifr/tests/e2e/fail/text_i18n_dynamic_errors_handler.sifr` |

See the [Error Codes index](/diagnostics/error-codes) for the complete catalog.