RMF Control AC-6: Least Privilege is a cybersecurity control that helps to protect information systems by ensuring that users only have the access they need to perform their job duties. This control is important because it can help to reduce the risk of unauthorized access, accidental or malicious misuse of access privileges, and the impact of a security breach.
Least Privilege Requirements
The RMF Control AC-6: Least Privilege requirements are specified in NIST Special Publication 800-53, Revision 5. The requirements state that the organization must:
- Grant users only the access they need to perform their job duties;
- Review user access permissions on a regular basis to ensure that they are still appropriate and effective;
- Use a variety of access control mechanisms, such as role-based access control (RBAC) and least privilege access lists (LPALs), to implement least privilege;
- Monitor and audit user activity to identify and respond to suspicious behavior; and
- Educate users on the importance of least privilege and how to comply with the organization’s requirements.
Least Privilege Best Practices
In addition to the RMF Control AC-6: Least Privilege requirements, there are a number of best practices that organizations can follow to improve their least privilege posture. These best practices include:
- Using a least privilege model for all systems and data, including administrative accounts.
- Implementing a role-based access control (RBAC) system to manage user access to systems and data. RBAC systems allow organizations to assign users to roles, and then grant permissions to those roles. This can help to simplify least privilege and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
- Regularly reviewing user access permissions to ensure that they are still appropriate and effective. This can be done manually or with the use of automated tools.
- Monitoring and auditing user activity to identify and respond to suspicious behavior. This can help to identify unauthorized access or misuse of access privileges.
- Educating users on the importance of least privilege and how to comply with the organization’s requirements. This can be done through training programs, documentation, and other resources.
Conclusion
RMF Control AC-6: Least Privilege is an important cybersecurity control that helps to protect information systems by ensuring that users only have the access they need to perform their job duties. By following the RMF Control AC-6: Least Privilege requirements and best practices, organizations can help to reduce the risk of unauthorized access, accidental or malicious misuse of access privileges, and the impact of a security breach.
Here are some additional tips for implementing and enforcing least privilege:
- Use a least privilege model for all new systems and applications.
- Implement a least privilege model for all existing systems and applications, as practicable.
- Use a least privilege model for all administrative accounts.
- Use a least privilege model for all users, regardless of their position or level of authority.
- Monitor and audit user activity to identify and respond to violations of least privilege requirements.
By following these tips, organizations can help to ensure that their information systems are protected from unauthorized access and misuse.