nerdexam
(ISC)2

SSCP · Question #18

The end result of implementing the principle of least privilege means which of the following?

The correct answer is A. Users would get access to only the info for which they have a need to know. Principle of Least Privilege restricts each user to only the minimum access rights needed to perform their job - meaning users get access to only the information they have a need to know (A), making it the direct outcome of applying this principle. Why the distractors fail: B…

Submitted by carlos_mx· Apr 18, 2026Access Controls

Question

The end result of implementing the principle of least privilege means which of the following?

Options

  • AUsers would get access to only the info for which they have a need to know
  • BUsers can access all systems.
  • CUsers get new privileges added when they change positions.
  • DAuthorization creep.

How the community answered

(62 responses)
  • A
    94% (58)
  • B
    2% (1)
  • C
    3% (2)
  • D
    2% (1)

Explanation

Principle of Least Privilege restricts each user to only the minimum access rights needed to perform their job - meaning users get access to only the information they have a need to know (A), making it the direct outcome of applying this principle.

Why the distractors fail:

  • B is the opposite - least privilege limits access, not opens it to all systems.
  • C describes improper access management; changing positions should trigger a review and reassignment of privileges, not automatic additions.
  • D (authorization creep) is what happens when least privilege is not enforced - privileges accumulate over time as roles change without removal of old access.

Memory tip: Think of "least privilege" like a keycard system - a janitor gets keys only to the rooms they clean, not the whole building. "Need to know = need to go (there only)."

Topics

#least privilege#access control#need to know

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