Access Control
The selective restriction of access to resources, systems, and data based on user identity and authorization. Access control is a fundamental security control required by ISO 27001, SOC 2, DORA, and GDPR to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information.
Access control encompasses the policies, procedures, and technologies used to manage and regulate who can view, use, or modify resources within an organization. It follows the principle of least privilege — granting users only the minimum access necessary to perform their job functions.
Key access control mechanisms include role-based access control (RBAC), attribute-based access control (ABAC), multi-factor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO), privileged access management (PAM), and just-in-time access provisioning. Modern compliance frameworks emphasize the importance of regular access reviews and automated provisioning/deprovisioning.
For compliance purposes, organizations must demonstrate effective access control through documented policies, regular access reviews (typically quarterly for privileged access), audit trails of access changes, separation of duties enforcement, and prompt deprovisioning when employees leave or change roles. Automated identity governance platforms help maintain continuous compliance with access control requirements.
Related Terms
MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication)
A security mechanism that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a system. MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and is recommended or required by DORA, ISO 27001, SOC 2, and GDPR security measures.
ISO 27001
The international standard for information security management systems (ISMS). ISO 27001 provides a systematic approach to managing sensitive company information, ensuring it remains secure through a framework of policies, processes, and technical controls.
SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls)
A compliance framework developed by the AICPA that defines criteria for managing customer data based on five Trust Services Criteria: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. SOC 2 reports are essential for SaaS companies and service providers.
ISMS (Information Security Management System)
A systematic approach to managing sensitive company information to keep it secure, consisting of policies, procedures, and technical controls. An ISMS is the core requirement of ISO 27001 and provides the organizational framework for information security governance.
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