Which approach follows the concept of least privilege?

The concept of least privilege is a foundational principle in security and access control, emphasizing that individuals should only have the minimum access rights necessary to perform their job functions. This not only reduces the risk of accidental or malicious misuse of sensitive data but also minimizes the potential damage in the event of a security breach.

When access is limited to what is absolutely necessary, it creates a more secure environment. For instance, if an employee only needs to access specific files to complete a project, they should not be granted access to other unrelated files or systems that they do not need for their work. This selective access helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and systems, minimizing the attack surface for potential threats.

In contrast, the other approaches fundamentally contradict the principle of least privilege. Unlimited access for all users, access based on seniority, and automatically granting access to all systems can lead to significant security vulnerabilities, as these practices allow individuals more access than necessary, increasing the chances for accidental data exposure or intentional misuse.