Definition
Privileged identity management (PIM) is a cybersecurity strategy focused on controlling and monitoring accounts with elevated permissions. It ensures that only authorized individuals can access sensitive systems and data, and only when necessary. PIM typically involves just-in-time (JIT) access, where privileges are granted temporarily for a specific task and then revoked. This approach significantly reduces the attack surface by minimizing the time accounts are over-provisioned. For instance, an IT administrator might request temporary elevated access to a server to perform a maintenance task, rather than having permanent administrator rights. Unlike simple multi-factor authentication, PIM adds layers of approval and auditing for privileged access. This concept is crucial for domains like identity and access management covered in certifications such as Security+ and CISSP.