easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: A system administrator needs to grant a user the…
A system administrator needs to grant a user the ability to read files in a specific folder but not modify them. Which access control principle should be applied?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the distinction between an access control *model* (like RBAC or MAC) and a security *principle* (like Least Privilege), causing candidates to confuse the mechanism with the overarching goal of minimizing permissions.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Least Privilege
The principle of Least Privilege dictates that a user should be granted only the minimum permissions necessary to perform their job functions. In this scenario, granting read-only access to a specific folder (e.g., using NTFS 'Read' permission or Linux 'r--' on the directory) ensures the user cannot modify files, directly applying Least Privilege. This prevents accidental or intentional data alteration while still allowing necessary access.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
Why it's wrong here
RBAC assigns permissions based on roles, but does not inherently enforce the principle of least privilege.
- ✓
Least Privilege
Why this is correct
Least privilege grants only the permissions necessary for the job, such as read-only access.
- ✗
Separation of Duties (SoD)
Why it's wrong here
SoD requires multiple individuals to complete a sensitive task, not about permission levels.
- ✗
Mandatory Access Control (MAC)
Why it's wrong here
MAC is a system-enforced policy based on labels, not about limiting permissions to read-only.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Access Control Fundamentals
Key term
Least privilege
Least privilege is a security principle that means giving users, systems, or programs only the minimum permissions they need to do their job and nothing more.
Key term
Access control
Access control is the security practice of determining who or what is allowed to view, use, or enter a resource, and under what conditions.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CC practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISC2 certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CC exam.