What is the principle of 'least privilege' in system security?

The principle of 'least privilege' is a fundamental concept in system security that emphasizes granting users only the access rights they strictly need to perform their job functions. This approach minimizes potential risks associated with data breaches or misuse of information since it limits the amount of access each user has. By ensuring that users don't have more privileges than necessary, organizations can reduce the likelihood of accidental or intentional damage to systems and sensitive data.

In a secure environment, if an account is compromised, the damage is contained because the attacker would have limited access tied only to the specific role of that user. This principle is vital in establishing a robust security posture, as it mitigates risks by reducing the attack surface.

In contrast, granting users all available access rights can lead to significant security vulnerabilities, as it opens up numerous potential pathways for breaches. Providing temporary access for all users may not sufficiently control access according to the needs of their role, potentially allowing unnecessary privileges. Lastly, completely eliminating user access during development would be impractical and counterproductive, as development teams need certain access to effectively build and test systems.