This group is protected and cannot be deleted

Error Message

In ArcGIS Online or Portal for ArcGIS, attempts to delete a group fail with the following error.

Error:   
This group is protected and cannot be deleted.

Cause

The ‘Delete protection’ setting is enabled in the group setting. In some instances, the ‘Delete protection’ setting cannot be disabled when the group is linked to a distributed collaboration.

Solution or Workaround

Follow the instructions below to disable the group's Delete protection setting.

Note:
For distributed collaboration groups, delete the collaboration or the collaboration workspace linked to the group before performing the following workflow.

1. In ArcGIS Online or Portal for ArcGIS, click Groups, browse to and click the name of the group to open its group page.
2. On the group page, click Settings.
3. Under Delete protection, disable the Prevent this group from being accidentally deleted. option.