01. Introduction to IS Auditing
The importance of Information Systems (IS) Auditing cannot be underestimated in our ever-connected world facilitated by Information Technology (IT). Given the increasing dependence on and complexity of IS, senior management and the Board of Directors of any organization constantly seek assurance that their IS operates in accordance with business processes and expectations while concurrently mitigating cybersecurity risks and upholding compliance with established standards, regulations, and other stipulated requirements.
This is where IS Auditing comes into the picture. It involves systematic, risk-based assessment and evaluation of the critical components of an organization’s IS (hardware, software, data, people, and processes) to verify that they are operating effectively, efficiently, securely, and in accordance with established standards and recognized policies.
In this chapter, we will dive deeper into the role of IS Auditing in any organization. This includes exploring the critical aspects of the definition of IS Auditing as well as discussing how IS Auditors add value to the organization by supporting its governance, risk management, and controls. It is also essential to review the authority and responsibility afforded to the IS Auditors, which empower them to fulfill their mandate. We will also discuss how IS Auditing plays a crucial role in upholding an organization’s data integrity, security, and compliance with regulations. Additionally, we will discuss how IS Auditors are viewed as business enablers, contributing value to the organizations they serve.
We will further look at the nuances of IS Auditing by comparing its roles against other types of audits. This includes financial statement audits, compliance audits, operational audits, investigative audits, and integrated audits. Lastly, we will discuss effective IS Auditors’ career paths and essential traits. We will explore the educational requirements and certifications that can guide your journey to becoming a successful IS Auditor. Beyond technical competencies, we will emphasize the importance of soft skills and enabling competencies. We will also explore the various fulfilling career tracks IS Auditors can look forward to within the audit function as well as within any organization in both technical and leadership roles.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to
- Recall the basic definition of an IS audit.
- Explain the objectives, purposes, scope, and types of IS Audits.
- Describe the Auditor’s responsibility, authority, and accountability for IS Audits.
- Differentiate between IS Audits and other types of assurance/audit projects.
- Outline the career opportunities as an IS Auditor.
A specialized branch of auditing focusing on assessing the controls and processes around Information Technology (IT) systems, including hardware, software, data, people, and processes.
Threats to information technology systems that can compromise data integrity, confidentiality, and availability.
The framework of rules, practices, and processes by which a firm is directed and controlled, particularly relevant in managing IT resources and strategies.
The process of identifying, assessing, and controlling threats to an organization's capital and earnings, which includes IT-related risks.
The mechanisms, policies, or procedures that ensure the integrity of an information system, accurate and reliable financial reporting, and compliance with applicable laws.
The accuracy and consistency of data stored in a database, data warehouse, or other construct.
A systematic, independent examination and evaluation of financial records, processes, systems, or organizational performance to determine their accuracy, completeness, and compliance with regulatory standards, internal policies, and procedures.
