In access control, what does the term "least privilege" mean?

The principle of "least privilege" is a fundamental concept in access control and information security. It refers to the practice of granting users the minimum level of access—or permissions—necessary for them to perform their specific tasks or responsibilities. This means that users should have only the permissions required to complete their job functions and nothing more.

Implementing least privilege helps to reduce the risk of accidental or malicious misuse of sensitive data or systems. For example, if a user does not require administrative privileges to perform their tasks, they should not be granted those privileges. This minimizes the attack surface and decreases the potential for security breaches, as fewer privileges mean reduced risk of exploitation by attackers or even the users themselves, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

By restricting access in this way, organizations can better protect their assets, comply with regulatory requirements, and enhance overall security posture. Therefore, the correct understanding of "least privilege" is crucial for effective access control and risk management strategies.