403 Forbidden Error – Happens due to incorrect file permissions, security plugin restrictions, or server-side rules.
If your website displays a ‘403 Forbidden’ error, follow these steps to resolve it.
Step 1: Clear Your Browser Cache and Try Another Browser
Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
Open the website in incognito mode or try a different browser.
Step 2: Check File and Folder Permissions
Access your website via FTP or File Manager.
Navigate to your website’s root directory (public_html).
Ensure correct permissions:
Folders: 755
Files: 644
If needed, right-click the folder/file > Permissions > Update settings.
Step 3: Rename or Delete .htaccess File
Locate the .htaccess file in the root directory.
Rename it to .htaccess_backup and try reloading the site.
If the site works, regenerate .htaccess by going to WordPress Dashboard > Settings > Permalinks and clicking Save Changes.
Step 4: Disable Security Plugins
Access wp-content/plugins/ via FTP.
Rename security-related plugins (e.g., Wordfence, Sucuri) to disable them.
Try accessing the site again.
Step 5: Check IP Blocking or Firewall Rules
If using Cloudflare or a security service, log in and check firewall settings.
Ensure your IP is not blocked.
Step 6: Disable Hotlink Protection
Some hosts block external sites from directly linking to your files.
In cPanel, go to Hotlink Protection and disable it.
Step 7: Contact Your Hosting Provider
If the error persists, your host may have security restrictions in place.
Ask them to check for server-level blocks or mod_security rules causing the issue.
Conclusion
Following these steps should help resolve 403 Forbidden errors. If the issue remains, check with your hosting provider for further assistance.