What does least privilege refer to in access controls?

Least privilege refers to a fundamental principle in access control that dictates that users should be granted only the permissions necessary to perform their job functions. This approach minimizes the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information or systems. By limiting access, organizations can better protect their data and reduce the potential attack surface for malicious actors.

The principle of least privilege is critical in environments with sensitive data or where compliance with regulations is required, as it helps in minimizing the impact of human error or malicious actions. Implementing least privilege also aligns with security best practices, as it fosters a more controlled and monitored access environment, facilitating easier auditing and forensics when incidents occur.

In contrast, other options propose concepts that, while important, do not specifically capture the essence of least privilege. For instance, revoking access after employee termination ensures that ex-employees do not retain access but does not address the ongoing principle of permissions during active employment. Changing passwords after login is a good security practice to prevent unauthorized access, but it does not relate to the scope of permissions granted to users. Similarly, unrestricted access to all files and applications directly contradicts the idea of least privilege, as it opens up numerous opportunities for security breaches and data leaks.