What does "least privilege" mean in data access management?

The concept of "least privilege" in data access management refers to the principle that users should be granted the minimum level of access necessary to perform their job functions effectively. This approach limits the potential exposure of sensitive information and resources, reducing the risk of accidental or malicious misuse. By operating under the least privilege principle, organizations can protect data integrity and confidentiality, as users do not have unnecessary access to data or systems that are outside the scope of their responsibilities.

Establishing minimum access helps ensure that if a user's account is compromised, the potential damage is limited, as the attacker would only have access to the restricted resources available to that user. This principle is a fundamental security practice in managing access to sensitive information and should be a key consideration in any organization's security policies.