What is the Principle of Least Privilege?

The Principle of Least Privilege is a security concept that emphasizes providing users with only the access rights necessary to perform their specific job functions. This means that individuals are granted the minimum level of permissions required to complete their tasks effectively. By implementing this principle, organizations can minimize the potential for accidental misuse or malicious exploitation of access rights, thereby enhancing their overall security posture.

In practical terms, this approach limits the exposure of sensitive data and systems to unauthorized access. For instance, if an employee only needs access to a particular database to perform their job, granting them access to additional resources would unnecessarily increase risk without providing any additional benefit to their role. By adhering to the Principle of Least Privilege, organizations can reduce the attack surface and enforce tighter controls over critical systems and data, ultimately leading to improved cybersecurity outcomes.