What is an advantage of implementing 'need to know' access control?

Implementing 'need to know' access control is primarily designed to limit access to sensitive information strictly to those individuals who require that information to perform their job functions. This principle significantly decreases the risk of unauthorized data exposure, as it confines access to a smaller group of predefined users. By ensuring that only necessary personnel can reach specific data, organizations can reduce potential points of failure that may lead to data leaks or misuse. Maintaining tighter control over who has access minimizes the chances of accidental or malicious data handling by individuals who do not have a legitimate reason to access certain information. Consequently, this approach enhances the overall security posture of the organization by protecting sensitive data from unnecessary exposure while also promoting accountability among those who are granted access to that data.