securityaudits

Security audits are systematic evaluations of an organization's information security controls, policies, and procedures, conducted to determine whether they are adequate, effective, and compliant with applicable requirements. They may be performed by internal teams, external firms, or regulatory bodies.

Audits can be internal or external and may focus on compliance with standards or on the design and operation of security controls. They typically assess technical controls, physical security, personnel practices, and organizational processes that affect risk.

The audit process generally includes planning and scoping, information gathering, testing of controls, vulnerability assessment and penetration testing, evidence collection, reporting, remediation tracking, and, when needed, a follow-up audit.

Common standards and frameworks referenced in security audits include ISO/IEC 27001, NIST SP 800-53, PCI DSS for payments, and SOC 2 criteria. The choice depends on industry, regulatory environment, and contractual obligations.

Outcomes of an audit include an audit report listing findings, risk ratings, and prioritized remediation recommendations. Organizations use the results to strengthen controls and may undergo remediation and, later, re-audits to verify improvements. Limitations can include scope constraints, evolving threats, false positives or negatives, and cost.

In governance terms, security audits contribute to risk management and assurance for leadership, customers, regulators, and partners. Many organizations combine periodic audits with continuous monitoring or continuous auditing to detect issues in a timely manner.

Typical domains examined include access control, asset management, data protection and encryption, identity management, logging and monitoring, incident response, business continuity, and third-party or vendor risk management.