Specialized Areas
IT Audit Fundamentals
Introduction to information technology auditing principles and practices
2025-12-05
IT Audit evaluates the effectiveness of information technology governance, controls, and security. As technology becomes increasingly critical, IT audit skills are essential.
🖥️ Key IT Audit Areas
- IT Governance: Policies, standards, organizational structure
- Access Controls: User provisioning, authentication, authorization
- Change Management: System modifications and updates
- Data Security: Encryption, data loss prevention, privacy
- Business Continuity: Backups, disaster recovery, resilience
- Application Controls: Input validation, processing, output
🔒 General vs. Application Controls
General Controls: IT-wide controls supporting multiple applications (access management, network security)
Application Controls: Specific to individual systems (data validation, reconciliation, audit trails)
📊 Common IT Risks
- Unauthorized access to systems or data
- Inadequate change control leading to errors
- Insufficient backup and recovery capabilities
- Lack of segregation of duties in IT
- Unpatched vulnerabilities and outdated systems
💡 Getting Started
Build IT audit skills gradually through training, certifications (CISA, CISSP), and collaboration with IT security teams. Start with high-level controls before diving into technical details.