Google Drive 'failed-forbidden' error still awaits a fix

Despite persistence of the issue since 2015, Google Drive users who encounter failed-forbidden error or failure to download the uploaded files await an answer from Google.

Google Drive acts as a backup, sharing and synchronization service. Those who faced the problem reported that they were unable to download the files they uploaded themselves. Users say, they get “Failed-Forbidden” error irrespective of file type being downloaded and web browser being used. Also, the problem is not limited to any particular OS.

Leaving users on their own, experts – it appears – did not consider this problem big enough to suggest any solutions. User suggested workarounds like using single account at a time, enabling incognito mode in Web browser, and re-logging worked for some but not all.

This issue was first reported in October, 2015. Finally on August 24, 2016 Google’s employee addressed the users by saying

“We’re happy to share that we’re soon rolling out some improvements to downloading files and folders in Google Drive on the web which should help you”.

It clarifies that Google is aware of this problem but we aren’t sure if the changes have been rolled out, as there’s no update after that.

A quick look at the relevant thread on official Drive forum reveals that this issue continues to trouble users. If you have been facing the same problem, Google Drives awaited update might resolve this issue. Rest assured, we’ll be the first ones to update in case of any further development.

Meanwhile, following are some of the suggested workarounds that you can try your hand on:
• Right click on the file you wish to download> create a shareable link> open link in new tab and download
• Sign out and sign in again
• Sing in using a single account, avoid using multiple accounts
• Clear cache and cookie from browser
• Open Drive in incognito mode

Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3