What does access control pertain to in information security?

Access control in information security fundamentally focuses on regulating who can access and use information and resources within an organization. It is primarily concerned with user access management, which includes establishing, maintaining, and removing user access rights and permissions. This aspect ensures that only authorized individuals are able to view or manipulate data, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access that could lead to data breaches or other security incidents.

The concept also encompasses system application controls, which are specific measures implemented within applications that govern how users interact with the system. For example, this can include authentication mechanisms, authorization protocols, and audit trails designed to track user activity within systems. All these elements work together to protect information assets against unauthorized access and misuse, aligning with the goals of an effective information security management system as outlined in ISO 27001.