Glossary definition: IT Audit

IT Audit: Ensuring Compliance & Security

An IT Audit is an independent review of the information systems and related operations of an organization. It is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and identify opportunities for improvement. IT Audits assess the accuracy and completeness of data, the integrity of system security and access controls, the effectiveness of system performance and reliability, the accuracy of system processing, the accuracy and completeness of system documentation, and the accuracy and completeness of system backups and recovery processes. The audit also evaluates the appropriateness of policies and procedures, the effectiveness of the organization’s IT governance framework, the adequacy of risk management processes, and the effectiveness of system change management processes. The audit process typically includes interviews with personnel, review of system documentation, and testing of system controls. The results of the audit are summarized in a report that provides recommendations for improvement and corrective actions.