Which of the following best defines the principle of least privilege?

The principle of least privilege is a key concept in cybersecurity and access management that dictates that users should only have access to the information and resources that are necessary for them to perform their job functions. This principle helps minimize the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches by limiting users' exposure to sensitive information and system functions.

By ensuring that users have only the privileges essential for their responsibilities, organizations can significantly reduce the potential damage that could arise from accidental or malicious misuse of more extensive access rights. This approach not only bolsters security but also enhances accountability, as it is clear who has access to what and under which conditions.

The other options do not align with this guiding principle. Allowing users access to all resources contradicts the fundamental goal of restricting unnecessary access, which could lead to significant security vulnerabilities. Granting access based solely on user status does not necessarily consider what users actually need to accomplish their tasks, potentially leading to excessive privileges. Lastly, granting unrestricted access could expose the organization to significant risks, compromising both data integrity and security protocols.