What does the principle of least privilege mean?

The principle of least privilege is a fundamental security concept that states that users should only be granted the minimum level of access necessary to perform their required duties. This approach minimizes potential damage that could be caused by accidental or malicious actions, as limiting permissions reduces the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data or critical systems.

By applying the principle of least privilege, organizations can enhance their security posture significantly. For instance, if a user only needs access to specific files or applications to carry out their job responsibilities, granting them access to only those resources helps mitigate the risk of exposure to vulnerabilities or data breaches. Additionally, in case of a security incident involving a user account, the impact will be restricted to the confines of that limited access.

In contrast, the other choices suggest broader access which could leave systems vulnerable to exploitation and increase the chances of security incidents. Unlimited access or unrestricted permissions can lead to unauthorized actions, while access at all times does not address the necessity of limiting access based on job roles. Frequent password changes, while a part of security hygiene, do not directly relate to the concept of least privilege in terms of access rights.