Primary definition
Unauthorized Access - Occurs when a user, legitimate or unauthorized, accesses a resource that the user is not permitted to use. SOURCE: FIPS 191 Any access that violates the stated security policy. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
Also known asillegal access · unapproved access · security breach · unauthorized entry
5 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 9, 2026
— The State and Local Election Cybersecurity PlaybookView source
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TSLECP
Unauthorized Access - Occurs when a user, legitimate or unauthorized, accesses a resource that the user is not permitted to use. SOURCE: FIPS 191 Any access that violates the stated security policy. (CNSSI-4009) (NISTIR)
The State and Local Election Cybersecurity Playbook · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Unauthorized Access. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/unauthorized-access
Sources
5 cited · last checked Aug 9, 2026
01
The State and Local Election Cybersecurity Playbook
The State and Local Election Cybersecurity Playbook
High consensus
02
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Committee on National Security Systems Glossary CNSSI 4009-2015
Disputed
03
March 2020 CSC Report
March 2020 CSC Report
Disputed
04
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
Disputed
05
The Cyber Glossary
The Cyber Glossary
Disputed
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