You might have encountered the 403 Forbidden HTTP status code in the past, indicating that your request to access a website was denied.
The 403 Forbidden Error occurs when a web page or resource on a website that you are trying to access is not accessible.
Similar to how the error is described by HTTP status code 403, it is named after it.
CAUSES
The 403 Forbidden Error indeed is sometimes quite frustrating, but you can deal with it better if you know its origins, once you are acquainted with several most probable causes you will be able to solve the problem for sure. Here are some potential reasons for encountering this error:
 1. Misconfigured File and Folder Permissions:
The particular user is unable to access restricted parts of the site because he/she does not possess the appropriate permissions to view the needed files.
Faulty permission settings will result in a situation when users may get the 403 error.
2. Corrupt .htaccess File
The .htaccess file is the most important element, responsible for setting the web server configuration.
Insecure settings have the potential to create malware, which could again break the .htaccess code and manifest itself as a 403 error.
3. Missing Index Page
A 403 error is the consequence of the fact that the index.html or index.php file is absent from the site directory and it serves as the default homepage.
4. Incompatible WordPress Plugin
A plugin with a misconfiguration or a conflict can be the reason behind the issue of accessing the website.
Make sure you consistently set up your plugins and they do not conflict.
5. Incorrect IP Address:
If the domain name points to the wrong IP address, the website may deny your access to this site.
Verify your IP address is correct.
6. Malware Infection:
Implementing security measures on your site can load lock the access to particular functions and prohibit malware infiltration.
An essential thing is system malware scans.
7. New Web Page Link
Sometimes, a page that has just been updated recently may show changes that do not appear in the cached version.
Be sure that the link is rights
SOLUTIONS
There are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the error:
1. Refresh the Page
Sometimes, the 403 error is just between you and the website, and you will be able to get something if you refresh and try again.
Should you be using Ctrl+R (Windows) or Cmd+R (Mac), you can also always try to find the Refresh button if it has one in your browser’s address bar.
2. Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies
Maybe the cached data is playing the main roller. Make a new trial and clear your cache and cookies to discover if this issue is solved.
3. Double-Check the Address
It is necessary to make sure that you have spelt the URL correctly. PS: This problem may cause a 403 error (typos, incorrect addresses).
4. Check if You Have Permission to Access the URL
Make sure you are allowed access to the resources or system. If there is no other way, then contact the website administrator.
5. Try Again Later
In some cases, there is no need to look further. Please wait a while and then reload the page to check it once again.
6. Contact the Website
If the problem still remains, contact the website’s administrators.
7. Contact Your ISP
Sometimes, your internet service provider commonly does this. Confirm with them.
8. Disconnect From Your VPN:
Occasionally, VPNs will have access problems. Disconnect your VPN for a while. Give it a second try.
Recollect that the primary problem, most likely, is with the settings of the website or server.