5 Best strategies to conduct an IT security audit

Audits have a bad reputation. Nobody wants to get a letter from the IRS informing them that an audit of their finances is about to begin. However, an audit simply refers to a formal examination of one's financial records. As a result, an information technology audit is a formal examination of an organization's IT infrastructure, policies, and operations. It also includes a review to suggest improvements.

IT Audit: Best Strategies

Conducting an IT audit is a complicated process that involves all aspects of your information system. There are policy and overarching general management issues to consider. Security architecture and design, systems and networks, authentication and authorization, and even physical security are all important considerations. Like any good risk management strategy, it entails continuity planning and disaster recovery.

There are also some overarching best practices that can help you navigate the maze so that you can start and finish on time. These five pointers will assist you in properly conducting an IT security audit.

1.       Scope: You're more likely to have an audit that runs smoothly if you know the scope of the audit ahead of time. For starters, when planning, you'll want to include all relevant stakeholders. Speak with people who work in the IT industry. They can help you figure out what risks you're looking for and what the system's current capabilities are. This will help you determine whether or not new technologies are required. Also, make sure you're up to date on all applicable laws and regulations.

2.       Outside Resources: You may have an in-house team capable of conducting the IT security audit, or you may need to hire outside contractors to assist with parts or the entire process. This must be decided ahead of time. You may have an IT audit manager on staff or need to hire a consultant who can train your team on what to look for in-between IT audits.

3.       Implementation: Know what you have and make a list of these systems in order of importance. To ensure you're up to date, familiarise yourself with industry standards, methods, and procedures. Examine your audit to see if assets are being safeguarded and risks are being minimized.

4.       Feedback: If you're not an IT professional, IT audit reports may appear to be written in a foreign language. The audit must be clear to those who make decisions in order for it to be effective. The IT auditor should deliver the report in person and answer any questions, ensuring that there are no doubts about the work and any vulnerabilities found.

5.       Repeat: Of course, an IT audit is not a one-time event, but there is still work to be done in between audits. This includes making recommendations for the future and utilizing IT software that can monitor systems, users, and assets automatically. Because the technology industry is notoriously fast-paced, it's a good idea to have a plan in place to review applicable laws, regulations, and new developments on a quarterly basis.

Want to learn more strategies for an IT audit? Go through a PMP prep session today!