What security feature is described by the Principle of Least Privilege (POLP)?

The Principle of Least Privilege (POLP) is a fundamental security concept that involves restricting user access rights to the minimum necessary to perform their job functions. This means that users are granted only those privileges essential for them to carry out their tasks, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data and critical systems.

By adhering to this principle, organizations can minimize the potential impact of security breaches, as even if an account is compromised, the attacker would only gain access to a limited set of resources. This containment strategy helps protect the integrity and confidentiality of the system, as well as mitigating the risk of sabotage and data leaks.

In contrast, providing full access to all users, allowing unrestricted access to essential systems, or enabling public access to sensitive data would significantly increase the risk of security vulnerabilities, as they would expose critical information and resources to individuals who do not require that level of access for their work. This can lead to potential misuse or accidental damage, emphasizing the importance of applying the Principle of Least Privilege in any security framework.