Software⏱️ 2 min read📅 2026-05-31

How to Fix: scp copy over ssh doesn't work - permission denied error, please?

SCP permission denied error due to incorrect ownership or permissions on the remote directory.

Quick Answer: Check the ownership and permissions of the remote directory. Use `ls -l` to verify, then adjust the permissions using `chmod` or `chown` commands.

The infamous 'Permission denied' error when trying to copy a file using SCP! Don't worry, it's easier to fix than you think. In this article, we'll dive into the root causes of this issue and provide step-by-step solutions to get your file transfer working smoothly.

🛑 Root Causes of the Error

  • The most common cause of this error is an incorrect file path or permissions issues on either the local machine or the remote server.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

Method 1: Using Absolute Paths

  1. Step 1: Make sure to use an absolute path for the remote directory, including the server's IP address or hostname.

Method 2: Changing File Permissions

  1. Step 1: Use the `chmod` command to change the file permissions of the local file to make it readable by the user running SCP.

✨ Wrapping Up

By following these simple steps, you should be able to transfer your file securely using SCP without any issues. Remember to always double-check your file paths and permissions before attempting the transfer.

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