Audit

A cyber security audit is a systematic and independent examination of an organization’s cyber security. An audit ensures that the proper security controls, policies, and procedures are in place and working effectively.

Audits play a critical role in helping organizations avoid cyber threats. They identify and test organizations security in order to highlight any weaknesses or vulnerabilities that could be exploited.

A cyber security audit focuses on cyber security standards, guidelines, and policies. Furthermore, it focuses on ensuring that all security controls are optimized, and all compliance requirements are met.

Cyber Security audit evaluates:

• Operational Security (a review of policies, procedures, and security controls)
• Data Security (a review of encryption use, network access control, data security during transmission and storage)
• System Security (a review of patching processes, hardening processes, role-based access, management of privileged accounts, etc.)
• Network Security (a review of network and security controls, anti-virus configurations, security monitoring capabilities)
• Physical Security (a review of role-based access controls, disk encryption, multifactor authentication, biometric data, etc.)

Benefits of a cyber security audit

A cyber security audit is the highest level of assurance service that an independent cyber security company offers.

An audit adds an independent line of sight that is uniquely equipped to evaluate as well as improve your security.

Some of benefits of performing an audit are:

• Identifying gaps in security
• Highlight weaknesses
• Compliance
• Reputational value
• Testing controls
• Improving security posture
• Staying ahead of bad actors
• Assurance to vendors, employees, and clients
• Confidence in your security controls
• Increased performance of your technology and security

Cybersecurity audits

There are four core cybersecurity audits:

1. Risk assessment
2. Vulnerability assessment
3. Penetration testing
4. Compliance audit

Risk assessment

Performing risk assessments will help recognise and prioritise risks and help identify different types of threats that your businesses could be vulnerable to.

Vulnerability assessment 

A vulnerabilities assessment works to identify weaknesses and possible risks. A vulnerabilities assessment will reveal areas that could be exploited to harm a business.

Penetration testing

Penetration testing simulates a hacking attempt. An expert will act as a ‘hacker’ and attempt to break into your company’s security system. By using different techniques, the hacker will attempt to bypass the security systems, which will highlight areas of the businesses IT security that needs improving/upgrading.

Compliance audit 

Compliance audits are necessary for businesses such as retail, finance, healthcare, or government who must comply with certain regulations. Compliance audits are to show that a company meets the laws required to conduct businesses safely in their industry.