When it comes to protecting your business from cyber threats, it’s easy to focus on the flashy stuff like firewalls, antivirus software, and password managers. But one of the most effective (and often overlooked) ways to boost your security is by sticking to something simple:

The Principle of Least Privilege.

Let’s break down what it is, why it matters, and how it can make a real difference in your business.

What is the Principle of Least Privilege?

The Principle of Least Privilege (often shortened to PoLP) is the idea that people should only have access to the data and systems they need and nothing more. If someone only needs access to one folder to do their job, they shouldn’t have access to the whole server. It applies to everyone: staff, freelancers, software, and even devices.

Why is this so Important?

Here’s why this principle is one of the easiest wins in cybersecurity:

1. Reduces the damage from mistakes

Accidents happen. If someone clicks a dodgy link in an email and malware gets in, limited access means it can’t spread across your whole network.

2. Protects sensitive data

Not everyone in your business needs access to payroll, HR files, or customer details. Keeping access limited protects you from internal leaks or misuse, accidental or otherwise.

3. Improves compliance

If your business handles sensitive data (especially under GDPR), showing you control who can see what is a big tick for regulators.

4. Helps spot unusual activity faster

If an account that should only access marketing files suddenly starts snooping around financial documents, it raises a red flag. This kind of activity is easier to detect when roles and permissions are tightly defined.

How Does it Apply to Small and Medium Businesses?

You don’t need to be a big business to put this into practice. Even small businesses can benefit massively from reviewing access across tools like:

• Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace
• File servers
• CRM and finance systems
• Remote access tools
• Cloud storage (like Dropbox or OneDrive)

It’s all about limiting access on a “need to know” basis and regularly reviewing who has access to what.

Common Access Issues We See (and how to fix them)

• Everyone has admin rights – Fix it by creating separate admin accounts and limiting day-to-day use.
• Ex-employees still have access – Remove or deactivate accounts as part of your offboarding process.
• Shared login details – Avoid this completely. Use named accounts for accountability and traceability.
• “Just in case” access – It’s better to grant temporary access when needed, rather than permanent open access.

Quick tips to apply the Principle of Least Privilege

• Audit permissions regularly – Check who has access to what, and whether it’s still needed.
• Use role-based access – Group users by department or role to manage access more easily.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) – Especially for users with higher privileges.
• Work with your IT provider – A good IT partner can help you design access policies that make sense for your business.

How Can Three Cherries Help?

The Principle of Least Privilege isn’t complicated, it’s just common sense. But putting it into action can dramatically reduce your risk of data breaches, human error, and internal human errors. If you’re not sure where to start, we can help. At Three Cherries, we work with businesses across the South West to tighten up access controls, reduce risk, and keep systems running smoothly. Contact us today for more information about IT support and Cybersecurity in Bristol.