What best describes the principle of 'least privilege'?

The principle of 'least privilege' is a fundamental concept in cybersecurity and information security management. This principle states that users should be granted only those permissions necessary to perform their job functions and nothing more. By limiting access to the minimum required rights, the organization reduces the risk of unauthorized access or accidental data breaches.

This approach is essential for maintaining security, as it minimizes the potential attack surface. If a user’s account is compromised, the potential damage is restricted to the minimal permissions associated with that account. It also helps in reducing the potential for accidental changes or deletions of sensitive data, as users are limited to accessing only what they need for their tasks.

In contrast, options that suggest equal access for all users, basing access on popularity, or having the highest possible privilege levels for convenience directly contradict the principle of least privilege and can lead to significant vulnerabilities within an organization’s security framework.