What are the benefits of the least privileged principle?
Network managers need secure methods to allow users and applications to perform critical functions on their network. The principle of least privilege, or POLP, is a security designed principle that restricts user and program privileges to only those necessary for the required job. Implementing this concept delivers network security benefits that provide flexibility for business growth while avoiding needless exposure.
POLP creates an environment with fewer liabilities
If a user accidentally reconfigures a critical area of the network, problematic instabilities can occur. Least privilege reduces the number of users that have excessive permissions. This minimizes the overall occurrence of privileged operations and therefore reduces the chance of high-risk errors.
In addition, the attack surface of a network widens as the number of accounts with unrestricted access goes up. Two of the largest data breaches on record, Target and Home Depot, were both caused by the mismanagement of network credentials. In both cases, hackers leveraged privileged accounts to gain access to millions of private records.
A least privilege policy creates fewer targets for bad actors while promoting an overall healthy network performance.
The possibility of catastrophic damages is limited
The least privilege approach narrows the scope of harm that can be caused by unwanted or unauthorized use of network privileges. If an account with limited permissions is compromised or mismanaged, the impact will be confined. However, an administrative session boasts a full set of system privileges. During these sessions, the network is particularly vulnerable to malware proliferation because malicious software can spread without restriction.
A manager should deny or revoke high-level powers from the majority of users and applications to limit the risk of widespread corruption.
Superior data security and audit capabilities
Eliminating perimeter security flaws is not the only critical aspect of data protection. Enterprises are targets for insider leaks and theft of proprietary data, posing a serious risk to their business. This is why controlling and monitoring the activity of authorized users is another key element of data security.
Least privileged policies limit the number of users with access to sensitive information and limit privilege elevations, which strengthens the overall security. If elevated privileges are required for additional job functions, an access management process that incorporates granular controls and tracks individual activity should be implemented.
These advanced restrictions create an added benefit during an audit. After a security incident, investigators are able to conduct a more efficient probe by focusing on defined areas, users, and applications.
The security of your network can be measured by the management of network privileges. Adhering to the principle of least privilege creates a protected and traceable environment by clearly defining high-level functions and actively controlling access.
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*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from SecureLink authored by Ellen Neveux. Read the original post at: https://www.securelink.com/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-the-least-privileged-principle/
