What concept ensures that only the necessary privileges are granted to users?

The Principle of Least Privilege is a fundamental security concept that ensures users are granted only the minimum level of access—referred to as privileges—necessary to perform their job functions. This principle is vital for minimizing the attack surface and reducing the risk of accidental or malicious misuse of resources.

By adhering to the Principle of Least Privilege, organizations can significantly limit the potential damage from compromised accounts. If a user's credentials are hijacked, the extent of access the attacker would gain is confined to that user's agreed-upon access level, thereby preventing further unauthorized actions within the system.

In summary, this principle is crucial for fostering a secure environment by controlling and restricting user permissions, ensuring users cannot access information or systems that are beyond what their role requires. This strategy not only enhances security but also helps in complying with various regulatory frameworks that demand stricter controls over sensitive data and systems.