Least Privilege

5 minutes 5 Questions

Least privilege is a security principle that enforces the concept of providing the minimum level of access necessary to an individual to perform their job functions. The primary objective of applying the least privilege principle is to maintain strict control over access to sensitive information, systems, or resources, preventing unauthorized actions or misuse. By limiting the scope of permissions, organizations can reduce the risk of accidental or intentional data breaches, unauthorized modification of data, or unintended consequences on critical systems. Key implementation strategies include regular reviews of user access rights, following the principle when assigning permissions and closely monitoring the overall access/activity of personnel.

Guide: Understanding and Answering Questions on Least Privilege

Understanding Least Privilege:
The concept of least privilege denotes the practice of limiting access rights for users to the minimal level that allows them to perform their tasks. It is an essential principle in information security.

Importance of Least Privilege:
Implementing least privilege is vital as it reduces the risk associated with malicious attacks and data breaches, minimizes exposure of sensitive information, lowers system susceptibility to viruses and malware, and prevents inadvertent errors that affect system stability.

How it Works:
It works by starting each user with minimal privileges and then permitting additional rights only as necessary for performing sanctioned activities. All unnecessary privileges are strictly avoided, thereby enhancing security.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Least Privilege:
During the exam, keep these tips in mind:

Understand that it is about restricting user access as much as possible without affecting job duties.
Consider the implications of not following least privilege, such as increased vulnerability to attacks.
Be familiar with how privileges are assigned and, more importantly, how unnecessary privileges are avoided.

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Question 1

A company wants to implement the principle of least privilege in their database. What can prevent unauthorized access while also allowing users to fulfill their roles?

Provide everyone with an admin account for troubleshooting. Assign users to specific roles based on their job responsibilities. Disable external access and only have one internal admin user. Give all users read-only access to the entire database.

Correct Answer: Assign users to specific roles based on their job responsibilities.

By assigning users to specific roles based on their job responsibilities, the company can maintain the principle of least privilege, ensuring users can only perform necessary actions within their scope of work.

Question 2

A software developer has been granted admin access due to a tight deadline. After the project is completed, what should be done to maintain the principle of least privilege?

Maintain admin access for the developer to minimize future requests. Revert the developer's access to the original level. Periodically review logs to ensure the developer is not abusing admin privileges. Terminate the developer's account entirely.

Correct Answer: Revert the developer's access to the original level.

After the completion of the project, the developer's access should be reduced to maintain the principle of least privilege. The correct action would be to revert the developer's access to the original (non-admin) level.

Question 3

An organization has hired a contractor to work on a web application. To adhere to the principle of least privilege, how should access be granted?

Delay access approval until the contractor attends a security training session. Allow read-only access to the organization's internal network. Create an admin account with full access to the entire system. Provide access only to the specific resources and tools required for their work.

Correct Answer: Provide access only to the specific resources and tools required for their work.

To maintain the principle of least privilege, provide the contractor with access to only the specific resources and tools required for their work, ensuring they can complete their tasks while minimizing risk.

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