What does the “principle of least privilege” refer to?

The principle of least privilege refers to the security practice of providing users with the minimum level of access – or permissions – necessary to perform their specific job functions. This approach minimizes the risk of accidental or intentional misuse of data and systems. By limiting access, organizations can reduce the attack surface for potential breaches, as users will not have more access than needed to perform their duties.

For instance, a user in a sales position might need access to customer databases but shouldn't have permission to modify or delete system configurations or access sensitive HR documents. By adhering to the principle of least privilege, organizations help protect sensitive information and maintain compliance with regulatory standards, ultimately enhancing their cybersecurity posture.