Information security audits are an integral part of the life cycle of information security programs, and they offer valuable insights into your program’s effectiveness. This article outlines some tips on preparing for an information security audit and explains how you can prepare yourself for an information security audit.

What is it?

An information security audit is a way of evaluating your security systems and procedures. You can carry out this evaluation with someone on your team (this is then technically referred to as a review), or with the audit function of your organization (which is referred to as Internal Audit), or with an accredited third party Auditor.

What are the main problems with Information Security audits?

Information security reviews and audits are very core aspects of the overall Information security program of organizations. Nevertheless, it can easily become problematic and a burden for organizations in some scenarios as mentioned below:

1. Use of unreliable audit tools
2. Inadequately definition and streamlining of auditing scope.
3. Audit scope creep
4. Lack of senior management support
5. Internal Audit function without adequate mandate and independence
6. Inexperienced auditors, etc.

Why is it important?

The main reason for performing Information Security audits is to find out the gaps and potential improvement within an information security program as defined by the scope of the audits.

Best practices for preparing for Information security audits.

Clear understanding of scope:

Before engaging in any form on audit engagements, make sure you understand the context, scope and boundaries for the audit.

Look at past audit reports and findings:

To prepare as best as possible, try to get your hands on copies of previous audits reports. Review them closely; look at how things were handled before and what caused problems down the line. Most importantly, ensure that findings from the previous audits are addressed adequately.

Get everyone on board:

Make sure that everyone on your team, from upper management to rank-and-file employees, understands why you’re doing an information security audit and gets behind it.

Summary

It’s never a pleasant surprise when you get your first security audit notice. However, before all of that uncomfortable scrutiny, you can take a few simple steps to ensure that your security is up-to-date and compliant with whatever regulations and policies apply. Performing regular reviews of your environment can minimize auditor concerns without overhauling your IT infrastructure or buying tons of new equipment. Start these preparations if a digital audit is coming your way soon.