PRINCIPLE OF LEAST PRIVILEGE Meaning and
Definition
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The principle of least privilege (POLP) is a foundational concept in the field of information security and access control. It refers to limiting user access rights to the bare minimum necessary for an individual to perform their authorized tasks. This principle is based on the idea that granting excessive permissions or privileges results in an increased risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential misuse or abuse of sensitive information.
Under the principle of least privilege, individuals are granted access rights solely based on their specific job responsibilities and tasks. This means that they only possess the minimum privileges required to complete their work efficiently. By adhering to this principle, organizations can significantly reduce the potential damage resulting from human errors, malicious activities, or security vulnerabilities.
Implementing the principle of least privilege involves regularly reviewing user access privileges, restricting administrative rights and permissions, and ensuring segregation of duties. It also necessitates the use of strong authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication, to ensure that only authorized individuals can obtain elevated access privileges.
By enforcing the principle of least privilege, an organization can minimize their attack surface and mitigate the risk of unauthorized access, data leakage, and privilege escalation. It forms an essential component of a comprehensive security strategy for safeguarding critical systems, sensitive data, and protecting against insider threats.
