In the context of information security, what does 'least privilege' refer to?

'Least privilege' refers to the principle of granting users the minimum level of access – or rights – to perform their job functions. This approach is fundamental in information security as it limits exposure to potential threats and reduces the risk of accidental or malicious misuse of system resources.

By minimizing user access rights to only what is necessary, organizations can significantly decrease the attack surface. For instance, if a user only requires access to certain files or applications to complete their tasks, restricting their permissions to just those resources helps safeguard against breaches that could occur if broader access were granted. This principle not only protects sensitive data but also helps in maintaining compliance with various security standards and regulations.

This tactic of restricting access serves as a foundational element of security policies, as it aids in tracking user actions, thereby enhancing accountability and facilitating auditing processes. Overall, the practice of least privilege is key in fostering a secure environment by reducing unnecessary permissions that could be exploited.