CISA Exam Dumps - Isaca Certification Questions and Answers

Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol)is the most secure option for transferring data over the internet, as it encrypts both commands and data, ensuring confidentiality and integrity.

SFTP (Correct Answer – C)

Uses SSH (Secure Shell) for encryption.

Provides authentication and encryption for secure data transfers.

Example:A company uses SFTP to securely transmit payroll files to a third-party processor.

UDP (Incorrect – A)

Faster but lacks encryption and data integrity checks.

HTTP (Incorrect – B)

Transfers data in plaintext and is vulnerable to interception.

RDP (Incorrect – D)

Used for remote desktop access, not secure file transfers.

References:

ISACA CISA Review Manual

NIST 800-52 (Guidelines for Transport Layer Security)

Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

Thebiggest riskin cloud migration isdata security, especially unauthorized access by the cloud provider.

Option A (Correct):The cloud providermanages and stores organizational data, meaning that abreach, insider threat, or improper accessposes amajor risk. Properencryption and access controlsare critical.

Option B (Incorrect):Whilemulti-tenancy risks exist, cloud providers typically implement strongisolation mechanismsbetween clients.

Option C (Incorrect):Increased dependency on the provider is aconcern, but the impact depends onservice agreements and redundancy measures.

Option D (Incorrect):Limiting the right to audit is acompliance issue, butdata security risksare more critical.

Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

Toverify the effectivenessof a third-party provider’ssecurity controls, anindependent external audit reportis thestrongestevidence.

Option A (Incorrect):Security configuration documentsare helpful butdo not confirm effectivenesswithout validation.

Option B (Incorrect):Policies and procedures outlineintent, but anaudit confirms actual implementation.

Option C (Correct):External audit reports (e.g., SOC 2, ISO 27001)provideindependent assurancethat security controls are effective.

Option D (Incorrect):Management interviews providequalitativeinsights but arenot objective evidenceof control effectiveness.

The primary reason to perform internal QA for an internal audit function is to ensure that the internal audit activity adheres to the Definition of Internal Auditing and the International Standards for the Professional Practiceof Internal Auditing (Standards) issued by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), as well as the internal audit methodology and policies of the organization. A QA program enables an evaluation of the internal audit activity’s performance, efficiency, effectiveness, and value, and identifies opportunities for improvement. A QA program also helps to enhance the credibility and reputation of the internal audit function among the stakeholders.

References

Quality Assurance - The Institute of Internal Auditors or The IIA

Benefits of a quality assurance review for internal audit

Optimize your internal audit function with a quality assurance review …

The best way to sanitize a hard disk for reuse to ensure the organization’s information cannot be accessed is data wiping. Data wiping is a process that overwrites the data on the hard disk with randomor meaningless patterns, making it unrecoverable by any software or hardware methods. Data wiping can provide a high level of security and assurance that the organization’s information is permanently erased from the hard disk, and that it cannot be accessed by unauthorized parties or malicious actors.

Re-partitioning is not a way to sanitize a hard disk for reuse, but rather a way to organize the hard disk into different logical sections or volumes. Re-partitioning does not erase the data on the hard disk, but only changes the structure and allocation of the disk space. Re-partitioning may make the data inaccessible to the operating system, but not to other tools or methods that can scan or recover the data from the disk sectors.

Degaussing is a way to sanitize a hard disk for reuse, but only for magnetic hard disks, not solid state drives (SSDs). Degaussing is a process that exposes the hard disk to a strong magnetic field, which disrupts and destroys the magnetic alignment of the data on the disk platters. Degaussing can effectively erase the data on magnetic hard disks, but it can also damage or render unusable the electronic components of the hard disk, such as the read/write heads or circuit boards. Degaussing also does not work on SSDs, which store data using flash memory cells, not magnetic media.

Formatting is not a way to sanitize a hard disk for reuse, but rather a way to prepare the hard disk for use by an operating system. Formatting is a process that creates a file system on the hard disk, which defines how the data is stored and accessed on the disk. Formatting does not erase the dataon the hard disk, but only deletes the file system metadata and marks the disk space as available for new data. Formatting may make the data invisible to the operating system, but not to other tools or methods that can restore or recover the data from the disk sectors.

References:

How to Wipe A Hard Drive for Reuse? Check the Quickest Way to Wipe A Hard Drive - EaseUS 1

HP PCs - Using Secure Erase or HP Disk Sanitizer 2

HOW to QUICKLY and PERMANENTLY SANITIZE ANY DRIVE (SSD, USB thumb drive …) 

Issuing authentication tokens is the most reliable method of preventing unauthorized logon, as it provides a strong form of authentication that requires users to present something they have (the token) and something they know (the personal identification number or PIN) to access the system. Authentication tokens are physical devices that generate a one-time password or code that changes periodically and is synchronized with the authentication server. This makes it difficult for attackers to steal or guess the credentials of legitimate users. Reinforcing current security policies, limiting after-hours usage and installing an automatic password generator are not as reliable as issuing authentication tokens, as they do not provide a strong form of authentication and may still be vulnerable to unauthorized logon attempts. References:

: [Authentication Token Definition]

: Authentication | ISACA

Change management is the process of planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating changes to an organization’s information systems and related components. Change management aims to ensure that changes are aligned with the business objectives, minimize risks and disruptions, and maximize benefits and value.

One of the key aspects of change management is measuring its effectiveness, which means assessing whether the changes have achieved the desired outcomes and met the expectations of the stakeholders. There are various indicators that can be used to measure change management effectiveness, such as time, cost, quality, scope, satisfaction, and performance.

Among the four options given, the most appropriate indicator of change management effectiveness is the number of incidents resulting from changes. An incident is an unplanned event or interruption that affects the normal operation or service delivery of an information system. Incidents can be caused by various factors, such as errors, defects, failures, malfunctions, or malicious attacks. Incidents can have negative impacts on the organization, such as loss of data, productivity, reputation, or revenue.

The number of incidents resulting from changes is a direct measure of how well the changes have been planned, implemented, monitored, and evaluated. A high number of incidents indicates that the changes have not been properly tested, verified, communicated, or controlled. A low number of incidents indicates that the changes have been executed smoothly and successfully. Therefore, the number of incidents resulting from changes reflects the quality and effectiveness of the change management process.

The other three options are not as appropriate indicators of change management effectiveness as the number of incidents resulting from changes. The time lag between changes to the configuration and the update of records is a measure of how timely and accurate the configuration management process is. Configuration management is a subset of change management that focuses on identifying, documenting, and controlling the configuration items (CIs) that make up an information system. The time lag between changes and updates of documentation materials is a measure of how well the documentation process is aligned with the change management process. Documentation is an important aspect of change management that provides information and guidance to the stakeholders involved inor affected by the changes. The number of system software changes is a measure of how frequently and extensively the system software is modified or updated. System software changes are a type of change that affects the operating system, middleware, or utilities that support an information system.

While these three indicators are relevant and useful for measuring certain aspects of change management, they do not directly measure the outcomes or impacts of the changes on the organization. They are more related to the inputs or activities of change management than to its outputs or results. Therefore, they are not as appropriate indicators of change management effectiveness as the number of incidents resulting from changes.

References:

Metrics for Measuring Change Management - Prosci

How to Measure Change Management Effectiveness: Metrics, Tools & Processes

Metrics for Measuring Change Management 2023 - Zendesk

 The internal audit manager should have a reporting line to the audit committee, which is an independent body that oversees the internal audit function and ensures its objectivity and accountability. Reporting functionally to a senior management official may compromise the independence and clarity of the internal audit reporting process, as senior management may have a vested interest in the audit results or influence the audit scope and priorities. *References: According to the ISACA IT Audit and Assurance Standards, Guidelines and Tools and Techniques for IS Audit and Assurance Professionals, section 1002 Independence, “The chief audit executive (CAE)should report functionally to the board or its equivalent (e.g., audit committee) and administratively to executive management.” 1

 The organization is primarily responsible for the security configurations of the deployed application’s operating system when migrating its HR application to an Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) model in a private cloud. This is because in an IaaS model, the cloud provider is responsible for the security of the underlying infrastructure that they lease to their customers, such as servers, storage, and networks, while the customer is responsible for the security of the areas of the cloud infrastructure over which they have control, such as operating systems, middleware, and applications. Therefore, the organization needs to ensure that the operating system is properly configured, patched, hardened, and monitored to protect the HR application from unauthorized access or malicious attacks.

The other options are not primarily responsible for the security configurations of the deployed application’s operating system. The cloud provider’s external auditor is not responsible for any securityconfigurations, but rather for verifying and reporting on the cloud provider’s compliance with relevant standards and regulations. The cloud provider is responsible for the security of the underlying infrastructure, but not for the operating system or any software installed on it by the customer. The operating system vendor is responsible for providing updates and patches for the operating system, but not for configuring or securing it according to the customer’s needs.

References:

11: What Is IaaS (Infrastructure As A Service)? - Forbes

12: What is Shared Responsibility Model? - Check Point Software

13: Who Is Responsible for Cloud Security? - Security Intelligence

 The greatest benefit of adopting an international IT governance framework rather than establishing a new framework based on the actual situation of a specific organization is wide acceptance by different business and support units with IT governance objectives. An international IT governance framework, such as COBIT, provides a common language and understanding for IT governance among various stakeholders, such as management, users, auditors and regulators. This facilitates alignment, communication and collaboration among them. Readily available resources, comprehensive coverage and fewer resources expended are also benefits of adopting an international IT governance framework, but they are not the greatest benefit. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version) , Chapter 1, Section 1.3.1.

 The best approach to determine whether IT service delivery is based on consistently effective processes is to evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs). KPIs are measurable values that demonstrate how effectively an organization is achieving its key objectives. KPIs can help the IT governance body to monitor and assess the performance, quality, and efficiency of the IT service delivery processes. KPIs can also help to identify areas for improvement and benchmark against best practices or industry standards. References:

CISA Review Manual (DigitalVersion), Chapter 1, Section 1.3.21

CISA Online Review Course, Domain 5, Module 2, Lesson 22

The best recommendation to prevent unauthorized access to a highly sensitive data center by piggybacking or tailgating is to use an airlock entrance. An airlock entrance is a type of access control system that consists of two doors that are interlocked, so that only one door can be opened at a time. This prevents an unauthorized person from following an authorized person into the data center without being detected. An airlock entrance can also be integrated with other security measures, such as biometrics, card readers, or PIN pads, to verify the identity and authorization of each person entering the data center.

Biometrics (option A) is a method of verifying the identity of a person based on their physical or behavioral characteristics, such as fingerprints, iris scans, or voice recognition. Biometrics can provide a high level of security, but they are not sufficient to prevent piggybacking or tailgating, as an unauthorized person can still follow an authorized person who has been authenticated by the biometric system.

Procedures for escorting visitors (option B) is a policy that requires all visitors to the data center to be accompanied by an authorized employee at all times. This can help prevent unauthorized access by visitors, but it does not address the risk of piggybacking or tailgating by other employees or contractors who may have legitimate access to the building but not to the data center.

Intruder alarms (option D) are devices that detect and alert when an unauthorized person enters a restricted area. Intruder alarms can provide a deterrent and a response mechanism for unauthorized access, but they are not effective in preventing piggybacking or tailgating, as they rely on the detection of the intruder after they have already entered the data center.

References: 1: CISA Certification | Certified Information Systems Auditor | ISACA 2: CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor Study Guide, 4th Edition 3: CISA - Certified Information Systems Auditor Study Guide [Book]

The auditor’s next action after finding that there is an informal unwritten set of standards in the IS department is to document and test compliance with the informal standards. This is because the auditor’s role is to evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of the existing controls, regardless of whether they are formal or informal, written or unwritten. The auditor should also assess the risks and implications of having informal standards, such as lack of consistency, accountability, or traceability. The auditor should not make recommendations, postpone the audit, or finalize the audit without performing the audit procedures. References:

CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 2, Section 2.21

CISA Online Review Course, Domain 1, Module 1, Lesson 12

The type of IS audit that would provide the greatest level of assurance that the department’s objectives have been met after implementing new technologies and processes is an integrated audit. An integrated audit is an audit that combines financial, operational, compliance, and IT auditing aspects to provide a holistic view of the organization’s performance and risks. An integrated audit can evaluate whether the new technologies and processes are aligned with the organization’s goals, strategies, policies, and controls, and whether they are delivering value, efficiency, effectiveness, and reliability. The other types of IS audits (A, C and D) would not provide the same level of assurance, as they would only focus on specific aspects of the organization’s activities, such as performance, cyber security, or financial reporting, which may not capture the full impact of the new technologies and processes. References: CISA Certification | Certified Information Systems Auditor | ISACA, CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 1: The Process of Auditing Information Systems, Section 1.2: Types of IS Audit Engagements

 The most important thing to assess when conducting a business impact analysis (BIA) is the completeness of critical asset inventory. This is because the critical asset inventory is the basis for identifying and prioritizing the business processes, functions, and resources that are essential for thecontinuity of operations. The critical asset inventory should include both tangible and intangible assets, such as hardware, software, data, personnel, facilities, contracts, and reputation. The critical asset inventory should also be updated regularly to reflect any changes in the business environment or needs. References:

CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 5, Section 5.41

CISA Online Review Course, Domain 3, Module 3, Lesson 12

 Data leakage prevention (DLP) is the process of preventing unauthorized access, disclosure, or transfer of sensitive data. In a multi-tenant cloud environment, where multiple customers share the same infrastructure and resources, DLP is a critical challenge. One of the best methods to enforce DLP in such an environment is to require tenants to implement data classification policies. Data classification policies define the types and levels of sensitivity of data, and the corresponding security controls and measures to protect them. By implementing data classification policies, tenants can ensure that their data is properly labeled, encrypted, segregated, and monitored according to their specific requirements and compliance standards. This can help prevent data leakage from accidental or malicious actions by other tenants, cloud service providers, or external parties.

References:

2: How Do I Secure my Data in a Multi-Tenant Cloud Environment? | Thales

3: Protecting Sensitive Customer Data in a Cloud-Based Multi-Tenant Environment | Saturn Cloud

4: Microsoft 365 isolation controls - Microsoft Service Assurance

 A configuration management system is a process that establishes and maintains the consistency of a product’s attributes throughout its life cycle. It helps to identify and control the functional and physical characteristics of a product, and to record and report any changes to those characteristics. A configuration management system also supports the audit of the product to verify its conformance to requirements.

One of the key activities of a configuration management system is to define baselines for software. A baseline is a fixed reference point that serves as a basis for comparison and measurement. A baseline can be established for any configuration item, such as a requirement, a design document, a test plan, or a software component. A baseline helps to ensure that the software product meets its intended purpose and quality standards, and that any changes to the software are controlled and documented.

A configuration management system also supports other activities, such as tracking software updates, supporting the release procedure, and standardizing change approval, but these are not its primary purpose. Therefore, the other options are incorrect.

References: : What is configuration management - Red Hat : Configuration Management | Definition, Importance & Benefits - ServerWatch

 The type of control that is in place when an organization has established hiring policies and procedures designed specifically to ensure network administrators are well qualified is directive. Directive controls are those that guide or direct the actions of individuals or groups to achieve a desired outcome. Directive controls can also help to prevent or reduce the occurrence of undesirable events. Hiring policies and procedures are examples of directive controls that aim to ensure that only qualified and competent personnel are employed to perform IT-related tasks. References:

CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 4, Section 4.11

CISA Online Review Course, Domain 1, Module 2, Lesson 12

The greatest concern for an IS auditor when auditing an organization’s IT strategy development process is that information security was not included as a key objective in the IT strategic plan. Information security is a vital component of IT strategy, as it ensures the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information assets, and supports the business objectives and regulatory compliance. The other options are not as significant as the lack of information security in the IT strategic plan. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 1, Section 1.31

Audit frameworks can assist the IS audit function by providing direction and information regarding the performance of audits. Audit frameworks are sets of standards, guidelines, and best practices that help IS auditors plan, conduct, and report on their audit engagements. Audit frameworks can help IS auditors ensure the quality, consistency, and professionalism of their audit work, as well as comply with the expectations and requirements of the stakeholders and regulators. Audit frameworks can also help IS auditors address the specific challenges and risks of auditing information systems and technology.

Defining the authority and responsibility of the IS audit function is not a way that audit frameworks can assist the IS audit function, but rather a way that the IS audit charter can assist the IS audit function. The IS audit charter is a document that defines the purpose, scope, objectives, and authority of the IS audit function within the organization. The IS audit charter can help IS auditors establish their role and position in relation to other functions and departments, as well as clarify their rights and obligations.

Providing details on how to execute the audit program is not a way that audit frameworks can assist the IS audit function, but rather a way that the audit methodology can assist the IS audit function. The audit methodology is a set of procedures and techniques that guide IS auditors in performing their audit tasks and activities. The audit methodology can help IS auditors apply a systematic and structured approach to their audit work, as well as use appropriate tools and methods to collect and analyze evidence.

Outlining the specific steps needed to complete audits is not a way that audit frameworks can assist the IS audit function, but rather a way that the audit plan can assist the IS audit function. The audit plan is a document that describes the scope, objectives, timeline, resources, and deliverables of a specific auditengagement. The audit plan can help IS auditors organize and manage their audit work, as well as communicate their expectations and responsibilities to the auditees.

References:

ISACA, CISA Review Manual, 27th Edition, 2019, p. 51 1

Understanding Project Audit Frameworks - Wolters Kluwer 2

How to Implement a Robust Audit Framework - Insights - Metricstream 3

What Is The Internal Audit Function? An Accurate Definition Of The

A maturity model for a technology organization is a tool that measures the progress and capability of the IT function in relation to its goals, processes, and practices. A maturity model can help identify gaps and areas for improvement, as well as benchmark the IT function against industry standards or best practices. One of the key aspects of a maturity model is the definition and clarity of roles and responsibilities for the IT function and its stakeholders. A roles and responsibility matrix, such as a RACI matrix, is a document that clarifies who is responsible, accountable, consulted, and informed for each task or deliverable in a project or process. A roles and responsibility matrix can help avoid confusion, duplication, or omission of work, as well as ensure accountability and communication among the IT function and its customers, partners, and suppliers. Therefore, an IS auditor should focus on reviewing the roles and responsibility matrix when evaluating the maturity model for a technology organization.

A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a document that describes the steps and instructions for performing a routine or repetitive task or process. SOPs are important for ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance in the IT function, but they are not directly related to the maturity model. A service level agreement (SLA) is a contract that defines the expectations and obligations between an IT service provider and its customers. SLAs are important for ensuring customer satisfaction, performance measurement, and dispute resolution in the IT function, but they are not directly related to the maturity model. A business resiliency plan is a document that outlines how an IT function will continue to operate or recover from a disruption or disaster. Business resiliency is important for ensuring availability, reliability, and security in the IT function, but it is not directly related to the maturity model. References: 1: Maturity Models for IT & Technology | Splunk 2: Responsibility assignment matrix - Wikipedia 3: Roles and Responsibilities Matrix - SDLCforms

 Limiting the use of logs to only those purposes for which they were collected is the best way to address potential data privacy concerns associated with inadvertent disclosure of machine identifier information contained within security logs, because it minimizes the risk of unauthorized access, misuse, or leakage of personal data that may be embedded in the logs. Logs should be collected and processed in accordance with the data protection principles and regulations, such as theGeneral Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)12. Restricting the transfer of log files from host machine to online storage, only collecting logs from servers classified as business critical, and limiting log collection toonly periods of increased security activity are not effective ways to address data privacy concerns, because they do not prevent or mitigate the potential disclosure of personal datain the logs. References: 1: CISA Review Manual (DigitalVersion), Chapter 5, Section 5.4.4 2: CISA Online Review Course, Module 5, Lesson 4

The overall effectiveness of an organization’s disaster recovery planning process depends on how well the plan reflects the current and future needs and risks of the organization, and how well the plan is tested, communicated, and maintained. Among the four options given, the most important one for the IS auditor to verify is that management reviews and updates the plan annually or as changes occur.

A disaster recovery plan is not a static document that can be created once and forgotten. It is a dynamic and evolving process that requires regular review and update to ensure that it remains relevant, accurate, and effective. A disaster recovery plan should be reviewed and updated at least annually, or whenever there are significant changes in the organization’s structure, operations, environment, or regulations. These changes could affect the business impact analysis, risk assessment, recovery objectives, recovery strategies, roles and responsibilities, or resources of the disaster recovery plan. If the plan is not updated to reflect these changes, it could become obsolete, incomplete, or inconsistent, and fail to meet the organization’s recovery needs or expectations.

The other three options are not as important as reviewing and updating the plan, although they may also contribute to the effectiveness of the disaster recovery planning process. Contracting with a third partyfor warm site services is a possible recovery strategy that involves using a partially equipped facility that can be quickly activated in case of a disaster. However, this strategy may not be suitable or sufficient for every organization or scenario, and it does not guarantee the success of the disaster recovery plan. Scheduling an annual tabletop exercise is a good practice that involves simulating a disaster scenario and testing the plan in a hypothetical setting. However, this exercisemay not be enough to evaluate the feasibility or readiness of the plan, and it should be complemented by other types of tests, such as walkthroughs, drills, or full-scale exercises. Documenting and distributing a copy of the plan to all personnel is an essential step that ensures that everyone involved in or affected by the plan is aware of their roles and responsibilities, and has access to the relevant information and instructions. However, this step alone does not ensure that the plan is understood or followed by all personnel, and it should be accompanied by proper training, education, and awareness programs.

Therefore, reviewing and updating the plan annually or as changes occur is the best answer.

Regression testing is the most appropriate testing method for assessing whether system integrity has been maintained after changes have been made. Regression testing is a type of software testing that ensures that previously developed and tested software still performs as expected after a change1 Regression testing helps to detectany defects or errors that may have been introduced or uncovered due to the change2 Regression testing can be performed at different levels of testing, such as unit, integration, system, and acceptance3

Unit testing is a type of software testing that verifies the functionality of individual components or units of code. Unit testing is usually performed by developers before integrating the code with other components. Unit testing helps to identify and fix errors at an early stage of development, but it does not ensure that the system as a whole works as expected after a change.

Integration testing is a type of software testing that verifies the functionality, performance, and reliability of the interactions between different components or units of code. Integration testing is usually performed after unit testing and before system testing. Integration testing helps to identify and fix errors that may occur when different components are integrated, but it does not ensure that the system as a whole works as expected after a change.

Acceptance testing is a type of software testing that verifies whether the system meets the user requirements and expectations. Acceptance testing is usually performed by end-users or customersafter system testing and before deploying the system to production. Acceptance testing helps to ensure that the system delivers the desired value and quality to the users, but it does not ensure that the system as a whole works as expected after a change.

References: 1: What is Regression Testing? Test Cases (Example) - Guru99 2: What is Regression Testing? Definition, Tools, Examples - Katalon 3: Regression testing - Wikipedia : What is Unit Testing? Definition, Types, Tools & Examples - Guru99 : What is Integration Testing? Definition, Types, Tools & Examples - Guru99 : What is Acceptance Testing? Definition, Types, Tools & Examples - Guru99

A test plan for the BCP is essential to ensure that the plan is effective, updated and aligned with the current business needs and objectives. A change in organizational structure with significant impact to business processes may require a revision of the BCP and a new test plan to validate its adequacy. The lack of a test plan for the BCP for two years indicates a high risk of failure in the event ofa disaster or disruption. Therefore, this should be the auditor’s greatest concern among the given options. References:

ISACA, IT Control Objectives for Sarbanes-Oxley, 4th Edition, section 5.3.21

ISACA, CISA Review Manual, 27th Edition, chapter 5, section 5.42

 The IS auditor’s best course of action when reviewing the use of an outsourcer for disposal of storage media is to determine exposure to the business. Storage media, such as hard disks, tapes, flash drives, or CDs, may contain sensitive or confidential information that needs to be protected from unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse. The IS auditor should verify that the outsourcer has a process that appropriately sanitizes the media before disposal, such as wiping, degaussing, shredding, or incinerating, and that the process is effective and compliant with the organization’s policies and standards. The IS auditor should also assess the potential impact and risk to the business if the storage media is not properly sanitized or disposed of, such as data breaches, reputational damage, legal or regulatory penalties, or loss of competitive advantage. The other options are not the best course of action, because they either do not address the root cause of the problem,or they are reactive rather than proactive measures. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version)1, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.7

The best way for an IS auditor to understand the software benefits to the organization would be to review the business case, which is a document that provides the justification and rationale for acquiring a software solution based on its expected costs, benefits, risks, and alignment with the organization’s goals and strategies. The business case helps to evaluate the feasibility and viability of the software acquisition and to support the decision-making process. A feasibility study is a document that analyzes the technical, operational, economic, legal, and social aspects of a software solution to determine its feasibility and suitability for the organization’s needs, but it does not necessarily provide a clear indication of the software benefits to the organization. A request for proposal (RFP) is a document that solicits proposals from potential vendors or suppliers for a software solution based on the organization’s requirements and specifications, but it does not necessarily provide a clear indication of the software benefits to the organization. The alignment with IT strategy is a factor that influences the software acquisition processand ensures that the software solution supports and enables the organization’s IT strategy, but it is not a document that can be reviewed by an IS auditor to understand the software benefits to the organization. References: CISA Review Manual(Digital Version), Chapter 3: Information Systems Acquisition, Development & Implementation, Section 3.1: Business Case Development

 It is acceptable for an IS auditor to rely on a third-party provider’s external audit report on service level management when the scope and methodology meet audit requirements. This means that the external audit report covers the same objectives, criteria, standards and procedures that the IS auditor would use to assess the service level management. This way, the IS auditor can avoid duplication of work and reduce audit costs and efforts. The service provider’s certification and accreditation, the report’s confirmation of service levels and the report’s release date are not sufficient to justify reliance on the external audit report. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version) , Chapter 2, Section 2.3.3.

Stratified mean per unit sampling is a method of audit sampling that divides the population into subgroups (strata) based on some characteristic, such as monetary value, and then selects a sample from each stratum using mean per unit sampling. Mean per unit sampling is a method of audit sampling that estimates the total value of a population by multiplying the average value of the sample items by the number of items in the population. Stratified mean per unit sampling is suitable for populations that have a high variability or a skewed distribution, such as the bank accounts in this question. By stratifying the population, the auditor can reduce the sampling error and increase the precision of the estimate.

Difference estimation sampling (option A) is not the best sampling approach for these accounts. Difference estimation sampling is a method of audit sampling that estimates the total error or misstatement in a population by multiplying the average difference between the book value and the audited value of the sample items by the number of items in the population. Difference estimation sampling is suitable for populations that have a low variability and a symmetrical distribution, which is not the case for the bank accounts in this question.

Customer unit sampling (option C) is not a sampling approach, but a type of monetary unit sampling. Monetary unit sampling is a method of audit sampling that selects sample items based on their monetary value, rather than their physical units. Customer unit sampling is a variation of monetary unit sampling that treats each customer account as a single unit, regardless of how many transactions or balances it contains. Customer unit sampling may be appropriate for testing existence or occurrence assertions, but not for estimating total values.

Unstratified mean per unit sampling (option D) is not the best sampling approach for these accounts. Unstratified mean per unit sampling is a method of audit sampling that applies mean per unit sampling to the entire population without dividing it into subgroups. Unstratified mean per unit sampling may result in a larger sample size and a lower precision than stratified mean per unit sampling, especially for populations that have a high variability or a skewed distribution, such as the bank accounts in this question.

Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

References:

Audit Sampling - AICPA

Audit Sampling: Examples and Guidance To The Sampling Methods

Audit Sampling |Audit | Financial Audit - Scribd

The most important thing for an IS auditor to validate when auditing network device management is that all devices have current security patches assessed. This is because security patches are essential for fixing known vulnerabilities and preventing unauthorized access, data breaches, or denial-of-service attacks on the network devices. If the network devices are not patched regularly, they may expose the network to various cyber threats and compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the network services and data12.

Devices cannot be accessed through service accounts is not the most important thing to validate because service accounts are typically used for automated tasks or processes that require privileged access to network devices. Service accounts can be secured by using strong passwords, limiting their permissions, and monitoring their activities. However, service accounts alone do not protect the network devices from external or internal attacks that exploit unpatched vulnerabilities3.

Backup policies include device configuration files is not the most important thing to validate because backup policies are mainly used for restoring the network devices in case of failure, disaster, or corruption. Backup policies can help with recovering the network functionality and data, but they do not prevent the network devices from being compromised or attacked in the first place. Backup policies should be complemented by security policies that ensure the network devices are patched and protected4.

All devices are located within a protected network segment is not the most important thing to validate because network segmentation is a technique that divides the network into smaller subnets or zones based on different criteria, such as function, security level, or access control. Network segmentation can help isolate and contain the impact of a potential attack on a network device, but it does not prevent the attack from happening. Network segmentation should be combined with security patching and other security measures to ensure the network devices are secure.

Recovery facilities providing a redundant combination of Internet connections to the local communications loop is an example of last-mile circuit protection. Last-mile circuit protection is a type of telecommunications continuity that ensures the availability and redundancy of the final segment of the network that connects the end-user to the service provider. The local communications loop, also known as the local loop or subscriber line, is the physical link between the customer premises and the nearest central office or point of presence of the service provider. Byhavingmultiple Internet connections from different providers or technologies, such as cable, DSL, fiber, wireless, or satellite, the recoveryfacilities can avoid losing connectivity in case one of the connections fails or is disrupted by a disaster5.

References:

9: Last Mile Redundancy - How to Ensure Business Continuity - Multapplied Networks

The best audit evidence that a firewall is configured in compliance with the organization’s security policy is to review the rule base. The rule base is a set of rules that defines the criteria for allowing or denying network traffic through the firewall. By reviewing the rule base, the auditor can verify if the firewall configuration matches the security policy requirements and objectives. Analyzing how the configuration changes are performed, analyzing log files, and performing penetration testingare useful audit techniques, but they do not provide direct evidence of the firewall configuration compliance. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version)1, page 383.

 The primary concern when negotiating a contract for a hot site is the availability of the site in the event of multiple disaster declarations. A hot site is a fully equipped alternative facility that can be used to resume business operations in the event of a disaster. However, if multiple clients of the hot site provider declare a disaster at the same time, there may be a shortage of resources or capacity to accommodate all of them. Therefore, the contract should specify the terms and conditions for ensuring the availability and priority of the hot site for the organization. The other options are not as important as availability, as they do not affect the ability to use the hot site in a disaster situation. Coordination with the site staff in the event of multiple disaster declarations is a logistical issue that can be resolved by communication and planning. Reciprocal agreements with other organizations are alternative arrangements that can be used to share resources or facilities in a disaster, but they may not be asreliable or suitable as a hot site. Complete testing of the recovery plan is a good practice that can help validate and improve the effectiveness of the recovery plan, but it is not a concern for negotiating a contract for a hot site. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 4, Section 4.2.3

One benefit of return on investment (ROI) analysis in IT decision making is that it provides the basis for allocating financial resources. ROI analysis is a method of evaluating the profitability or cost-effectiveness of an IT project or investment by comparing the expected benefits with the required costs. ROI analysis can help IT decision makers prioritize and justify their IT initiatives, allocate their financial resources optimally, and demonstrate the value contribution of IT to the organization’s goals and objectives. Basis for allocating indirect costs, cost of replacing equipment, and estimated cost of ownership are not benefits of ROI analysis in IT decision making. These are more inputs or outputs of ROI analysis that could be used to calculate or estimate the costs or benefits of an IT project or investment. References: [ISACA CISA Review Manual 27th Edition], page 307

 A top-down maturity model process is a method of assessing and improving the maturity level of a process or a set of processes within an organization. A maturity level is a measure of how well-defined, controlled, measured, and optimized a process is. A top-down maturity model process starts with defining the desired maturity level and then identifying the gaps and improvement opportunities for each process. This helps prioritize the processes that need the most attention and improvement. Therefore, a result of utilizing a top-down maturity model process is identification of processes with the most improvement opportunities.

A means of benchmarking the effectiveness of similar processes with peers, a means of comparing the effectiveness of other processes within the enterprise, and identification of older, more established processes to ensure timely review are not results of utilizing a top-down maturity model process. These are possible benefits or objectives of using other types of maturity models or assessment methods, but they are not specific to a top-down approach.

The first course of action that the auditor should recommend after finding that several employees are spending an excessive amount of time using social media sites for personal reasons is to implement policies addressing acceptable usage of social media during working hours. Policies can help define the scope, purpose, rules, and expectations of using social media in the workplace, both for personal and professional reasons. Policies can also specify the consequences of violating the policies, such as disciplinary actions or termination. Policies can help deter employees from misusing social media at work, which could affect their productivity, performance, or security. Policies can also help protect the organization from legal liabilities or reputational damages that could arise from inappropriate or unlawful employee behavior on social media. 

Reviewing and evaluating application test cases is the most effective use of an IS auditor’s time during the evaluation of controls over a major application development project. Application test cases are designed to verify that the application meets the functional and non-functional requirements and specifications. They also help to identify and correct any errors, defects, or vulnerabilities in the application before it is deployed. By reviewing and evaluating the test cases, the IS auditor can assess the quality, reliability, security, and performance of the application and provide recommendations for improvement. 

The best test to provide assurance that a health care organization is handling patient data appropriately is compliance with local laws and regulations, as these are the primary sources of authority and obligation for data protection and privacy. Compliance with action plans, industry standards, or organizational policies and procedures are also important, but they may not cover all the legal requirements or reflect the currentbest practices for handling patient data. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 2, Section 2.3

Controls to minimize risk and maximize value for the IT portfolio should be the most important consideration when conducting a review of IT portfolio management, because they ensure that the IT portfolio aligns with the business strategy, objectives, and priorities, and that the IT investments deliver optimal benefits and outcomes. Assignment of responsibility for each project to an IT team member, adherence to best practice and industry approved methodologies, and frequency of meetings where the business discusses the IT portfolio are also relevant aspects of IT portfolio management, but they are not asimportant as controls to minimize risk and maximize value. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version),Chapter 1, Section 1.2.3

 The first step that an IS auditor should take when finding that a business impact analysis (BIA) has not been performed is to evaluate the impact on current disaster recovery capability. A BIA is a process that identifies and analyzes the potential effects of disruptions to critical business functions and processes. A BIA helps determine the recovery priorities, objectives, and strategies for the organization. Without a BIA, the disaster recovery plan may not be aligned with the business needs and expectations, and may not provide adequate protection and recovery for the most critical assets and activities. Therefore, an IS auditor should assess how the lack of a BIA affects the current disaster recovery capability and identify any gaps or risks that need to be addressed.

Performing a BIA, issuing an intermediate report to management, and conducting additional compliance testing are not the first steps that an IS auditor should take when finding that a BIA has not been performed. These steps may be done later in the audit process, after evaluating the impact on current disaster recovery capability. Performing a BIA is not the responsibility of the IS auditor, but of the business owners and managers. Issuing an intermediate report to management may be premature without sufficient evidence and analysis. Conducting additional compliance testing may not be relevant ornecessary without a clear understanding of the disaster recovery requirements and objectives.

 The greatest concern for an IS auditor if there are flaws in the mapping of accounts between a front-end subledger and a main ledger is the inaccuracy of financial reporting. A subledger is a detailed record of transactions for a specific account, such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory,or fixed assets. A main ledger is a summary record of all transactions for all accounts in an accounting system. The mapping of accounts between a subledger and a main ledger is the process of linking or reconciling the transactions in the subledger with the corresponding entries in the main ledger. If there are flaws in the mapping of accounts, such as missing, duplicated, or incorrect transactions, the main ledger may not reflect the true financial position and performance of the organization. This may lead to inaccurate financial reporting, which may affect decision making, compliance, auditing, taxation, and stakeholder confidence.

Double-posting of a single journal entry, inability to support new business transactions, and unauthorized alteration of account attributes are not the greatest concerns for an IS auditor if there are flaws in the mapping of accounts between a front-end subledger and a main ledger. These are possible consequences or causes of flaws in the mapping of accounts, but they do not have as significant an impact as inaccuracy of financial reporting. Double-posting of a single journal entry may result in errors or discrepancies in the main ledger balances. Inability to support new business transactions may indicate limitations or inefficiencies in the accounting system design or configuration. Unauthorized alteration of account attributes may suggest weaknesses or breaches in access control or segregation of duties.

The best recommendation to facilitate compliance with the regulation that requires organizations to report significant security incidents to the regulator within 24 hours of identification is to include the requirement in the incident management response plan. An incident management response plan is a document that defines the roles, responsibilities, procedures, and tools for managing security incidents effectively and efficiently. Including the requirement in the incident management response plan can help ensure that security incidents are identified, classified, reported, and escalated in accordance with the regulation. The other options are not as effective as including the requirement in the incident management response plan, as they do not address all aspects of incident management or compliance. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) for timely identification of security incidents is a monitoring technique that can help measure and improve the performance of incident management processes, but it does not ensure compliance with the regulation. Enhancing the alert functionality of the intrusion detection system (IDS) is a technical control that can help detect and notify security incidents faster, but it does not ensure compliance with the regulation. Engaging an external security incident response expert for incident handling is a contingency measure that can help augment the organization’s internal capabilities and resources for managing security incidents, but it does not ensure compliance with the regulation. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 4, Section 4.2.2

 The best compensating control when segregation of duties is lacking in a small IS department is transaction log review. Transaction log review can help detect any unauthorized or fraudulent activities performed by IS staff who have access to multiple functions or systems. Transaction log review can also provide an audit trail for accountability and investigation purposes. The other options are not as effective as transaction log review in compensating for the lack of segregation of duties. Background checks are preventive controls that can help screen potential employees for any criminal records or dishonest behavior, but they do not prevent existing employees from abusing their access privileges. User awareness training is a detective control that can help educate users on how to report any suspicious or abnormal activities in the IS environment, but it does not monitor or verify the actions of IS staff. Mandatory holidays are deterrent controls that can discourage IS staff from engaging in fraudulent activities by requiring them to take periodic leave, but they do not prevent or detect such activities when they occur. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 3, Section 3.2

The first step when planning a penetration test is to obtain management consent for the testing. This is because a penetration test involves simulating a cyberattack against theorganization’s systems and networks, which may have legal, ethical, and operational implications. Without proper authorization from management, a penetration test may violate laws, policies, contracts, or service level agreements. Management consent also helps define the objectives, scope, and boundaries of the test, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the testers and the stakeholders. Obtaining management consent for the testing also demonstrates due care and due diligence on the part of the testers and the organization.

Executing nondisclosure agreements (NDAs), determining reporting requirements for vulnerabilities, and defining the testing scope are important steps when planning a penetration test, but they are not the first step. These steps should be done after obtaining management consent for the testing, as they depend on the approval and involvement of management and other parties.

The most important thing for an IS auditor to review when evaluating the accuracy of a spreadsheet that contains several macros is the formulas within macros. Macros are sequences of commands or instructions that can automate tasks or calculations in a spreadsheet. Formulas are expressions that perform calculations on values or data in a spreadsheet. The accuracy of a spreadsheet depends largely on whether the formulas within macros are correct, consistent, and complete. The IS auditor should review the formulas within macros to verify that they produce the expected results and do not contain any errors or inconsistencies. The other options are not as important as formulas within macros, as they do not directly affect the accuracy of a spreadsheet. Encryption of the spreadsheet is a security control that can protect the confidentiality and integrity of the spreadsheet, but it does not ensure its accuracy. Version history is a document control feature that can track and manage changes to the spreadsheet, but it does not verify its accuracy. Reconciliation of key calculations is a validation technique that can compare and confirm the results of calculations with other sources, but it does not evaluate the accuracy of formulas within macros. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 3, Section 3.2

The role within the RACI chart that would provide information on who has oversight of staff performing a specific task is accountable. A RACI chart is a matrix that defines and assigns the roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders for a project, process, or activity. RACI stands for responsible, accountable, consulted, and informed. Accountable is the role that has the authority and oversight to approve or reject the work done by the responsible role. The other options are not the roles that provide information on who has oversight of staff performing a specific task, as they have different meanings and functions. Consulted is the role that provides input or advice to the responsible or accountable roles. Informed is the role that receives updates or reports from the responsible or accountable roles. Responsible is the role that performs or executes the work or task. References: CISA Review Manual (Digital Version), Chapter 3, Section 3.3