hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: Is implementing a new identity management system
An organization is implementing a new identity management system. They want to ensure that users can only access resources necessary for their job roles. Which principle should guide the access control design?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests least privilege versus need to know, where candidates mistakenly choose need to know because it sounds more specific, but least privilege is the broader, correct principle for general access control design in identity management.
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 users should be granted only the permissions necessary to perform their job functions and nothing more. In an identity management system, this is implemented by assigning minimal access rights to resources, reducing the attack surface and limiting potential damage from compromised accounts. This directly aligns with the scenario of ensuring users can only access resources essential for their roles.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Separation of duties
Why it's wrong here
Separation of duties splits tasks, not access based on job role.
- ✓
Least privilege
Why this is correct
Least privilege grants only necessary access for job roles.
- ✗
Need to know
Why it's wrong here
Need to know is a part of least privilege but focuses on information, not all resources.
- ✗
Defense in depth
Why it's wrong here
Defense in depth is about multiple layers of security, not role-based access.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Risk Management and Security Controls
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.