Here’s a quick question: Do you know exactly who in your business can access your critical data right now?
And maybe the bigger question, do they really need that access to do their job?
Many business leaders assume access gets set up once and then it’s done. But research shows that’s far from the truth. In fact, nearly half of employees in businesses have access to far more data than they should.
Why That’s a Big Problem
When people have unnecessary access, it’s not just about malicious intent. Mistakes happen all the time. Sensitive files get shared by accident, outdated accounts are left active, or private data is exposed during audits. This risk is called insider risk, and it applies to employees, contractors, and anyone else with system access.
Insider risk isn’t always intentional. More often, it’s accidental. Someone clicks the wrong link, sends information to the wrong client, or leaves the company without having their access revoked. Each scenario opens the door to costly data breaches and compliance headaches.
Privilege Creep: The Silent Threat
One major culprit is something called privilege creep. Over time, employees accumulate access as they change roles or get added to new systems. Without regular oversight, their permissions grow far beyond what’s actually needed.
Shockingly, almost half of businesses admit that some former staff still have access to systems months after leaving. That’s like handing an ex-employee the keys to your office and never asking for them back.
The Solution: Least Privilege
The fix lies in adopting a least privilege approach. That means staff only get the access necessary for their roles, nothing more. In some cases, permissions are granted temporarily, often referred to as “just in time” access, and removed once no longer required.
Equally important, when someone leaves the business, all their access should be revoked immediately.
Taking Control
With today’s mix of cloud apps, AI tools, and “shadow IT” (software used outside of IT’s knowledge), managing access can feel complicated. But it’s absolutely achievable with the right mindset and tools.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Review permissions regularly to ensure employees only see what’s relevant.
- Automate where possible so outdated access doesn’t slip through the cracks.
- Tighten controls without slowing down productivity.
The goal isn’t to restrict your team, it’s to protect your business, your customers, and your reputation.
If you’re not sure how secure your access controls are, now’s the time to find out. It’s far better to identify risks today than to deal with a breach tomorrow.
Until next time, keep fit and have fun!
(TYYV) The Yada Yada Version:
Half of employees have unnecessary access to sensitive data and yada yada yada it creates insider risks, compliance issues, and security gaps.
