What is the primary goal of access controls in information security?

The primary goal of access controls in information security is to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive data. This involves implementing policies and procedures that determine who can access specific information and what actions they can perform with that information. Access controls are essential for protecting sensitive data from breaches, ensuring compliance with regulations, and maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of information.

By limiting access, organizations can protect their assets from potential threats, including theft, data breaches, or insider threats. Access controls may include mechanisms like passwords, authentication processes, and role-based access systems. Overall, their main function is to safeguard critical information by ensuring that only authorized personnel can view or manipulate that data, thus reducing the risk of sensitive information being compromised.