// glossary entry
403
What is 403?
HTTP 403 is a status code that indicates the web server recognizes a request but deliberately denies access, for example, due to a lack of authorization, a blocked IP address, or a disabled service. Unlike a 401, a 403 does not mean “not logged in,” but rather “not allowed.” At Waterproof Web Wizard, we use 403 responses as an active security signal: protected areas remain invisible to unauthorized users, while legitimate users receive clear feedback instead of a cascade of errors.
// synonyms
- 403 Forbidden
- HTTP 403
- Error 403
- 403 Error
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