Least Privilege Principle

5 minutes 5 Questions

The principle of least privilege is a fundamental security concept wherein a subject (user, process, or system) is granted the minimum necessary access and permissions to perform its function, and nothing more. This approach reduces the attack surface by limiting the potential damage an attacker could cause if a user's credentials are compromised. Implementing this principle involves defining roles and permissions based on job responsibilities and functions, regularly reviewing and updating permissions (particularly when users move within the organization), and implementing separation of duties to prevent conflicts of interest and insider threats. By adhering to the principle of least privilege, an organization minimizes the risk associated with unauthorized access to sensitive information and system components, and subsequently, the potential for data breaches or exploitation of system resources.

Guide to Understanding the Least Privilege Principle

What is the Least Privilege Principle?
The Least Privilege Principle is a computer security concept in which a user is given the minimum levels of access necessary to complete his/her job functions. This principle is a part of Identity and Access Management in the CISSP certification.

Why is it important?
It is important as it helps to minimize the potential damage that can be caused due to misuse of privileges, either intentionally or unintentionally. It reduces risk and increases system stability, security, and productivity.

How it Works?
This principle works by assigning users and processes the minimum necessary rights needed for their work. For instance, a regular employee will have lesser access rights than an IT administrator.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Least Privilege Principle
- The principle emphasizes giving the minimal permissions to avoid risks.
- It applies to both users and processes.
- Remember it's not about denying privileges but about granting just the necessary ones.
- In scenarios, consider which option implies the least access to accomplish the needed task.
- It's a preventive measure to limit the potential damage of system breaches.
- In the case of privilege escalation, always consider it as a violation of the principle.
The Least Privilege Principle ensures that systems allow only necessary access and thereby reduce security risk and maintain operational efficiency.

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Question 1

A company wants to introduce a new custom application to handle its financial data. How should the application's access permissions be set up according to the Least Privilege Principle?

Restrict access only to executives Give access to the IT department and let them manage permissions Restrict application access to only those with a business need to access financial data Provide application access to all employees

Correct Answer: Restrict application access to only those with a business need to access financial data

Restricting application access to only those with a business need to access financial data supports the Least Privilege Principle by only granting necessary permissions for specific users. The other answers either provide unnecessary access or institute inefficient methods for maintaining access.

Question 2

A system administrator needs to provide access to a printer for several employees. What is the best approach respecting the Least Privilege Principle?

Use a shared account for all employees to access the printer Grant access to all employees and then restrict access to only those who need it Create a printer group and grant access only to the specific employees Give each employee full administrative access to the printer

Correct Answer: Create a printer group and grant access only to the specific employees

Creating a printer group and granting access only to specific employees respects the Least Privilege Principle by giving employees the minimum access required to get their job done. The other answers violate the principle by granting excessive rights or relying on employee self-restraint.

Question 3

To comply with the Least Privilege Principle, which security measure should be implemented to mitigate risk when a user's role in the company changes?

Do not adjust user privileges, but monitor their activity Require users to request access for each task they perform Regularly review and adjust user access based on current job responsibilities Increase the user's privileges to be compatible with all possible roles

Correct Answer: Regularly review and adjust user access based on current job responsibilities

Regularly reviewing and adjusting user access based on their current job responsibilities ensures that users retain only the necessary privileges for their role, complying with the Least Privilege Principle. The other options either provide unnecessary access, do not manage user privileges effectively, or rely on inefficient methods.

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