403 Forbidden
A 403 Forbidden error means your browser reached the website, but the site is refusing access. This is commonly caused by a device, browser, or network setting blocking the connection.
Step-by-Step Fixes
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Turn off VPN or iCloud Private Relay
- If you’re using a VPN, disable it and try again (some sites block VPN traffic).
- On iPhone/iPad/Mac, iCloud Private Relaycan behave like a VPN and may cause this.
- Mac: System Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → Private Relay
- iPhone/iPad: Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → Private Relay
- Guide: How to turn off iCloud Private Relay on iOS and Mac devices
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Disable browser extensions
- Ad blockers and privacy/security extensions can interfere with website access.
- Try opening the site in a Private/Incognitowindow.
- If it works there, disable extensions one-by-one in a normal window to find the cause.
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Clear browser cache and cookies
- Outdated or corrupted browser data can trigger a 403 error.
- In your browser: Settings → Privacy (or History) → clear cache and cookies.
- Close and reopen the browser, then try again.
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Refresh the page and confirm the URL
- Double-check the address was entered correctly.
- Refresh using F5 or Ctrl+R (or Cmd+R on Mac).
Still Not Working?
- Try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.).
- Try a different device (phone or another computer).
- Try a different network (mobile data, home Wi-Fi, etc.).
- If this occurs on a work or campus network, contact IT support (it may need to be addressed on the network side).
For additional help, contact Kean’s 24/7 IT Support line at 908-737-6000, or submit a ticket here: https://helpdesk.kean.edu/support/home.