How does the principle of least privilege enhance cyber security?

The principle of least privilege is a foundational concept in cyber security that enhances the protection of sensitive information and systems. By allowing users only the minimal level of access necessary to perform their job functions, this principle effectively reduces the potential for accidental or intentional misuse of resources.

When users are granted excessive permissions, the likelihood of errors, such as unintentional deletions or modifications, increases. Additionally, if a user account is compromised, having limited privileges can help contain the damage, as the attacker would not have unrestricted access to critical systems or sensitive data. Thus, this approach minimizes the attack surface and mitigates risks associated with privilege escalation.

In contrast, options that suggest maximum access to users or read-only access do not address the broader spectrum of potential threats. Unlimited access can lead to greater vulnerabilities, while limiting all users to read-only access can hinder legitimate business processes that require modification capabilities. Similarly, restricting access solely to system administrators can create bottlenecks and delays, as it can slow down operational efficiency. Therefore, granting only the necessary permissions aligns with best practices in security management and is integral to building a robust security posture.