How can you get the most out of cybersecurity audits?

2 Choose the right auditor and method

Depending on your scope and objectives, you may need to choose an external or internal auditor, or a combination of both. External auditors can provide an independent and unbiased perspective, as well as expertise and experience in specific domains or industries. Internal auditors can leverage their knowledge and familiarity with your organization, as well as save costs and time. You may also need to decide whether to use a self-assessment, a questionnaire, an interview, a testing, or a review method, or a mix of them. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so you need to consider the level of detail, accuracy, and validity that you need.

3 Prepare your data and documentation

One of the most important steps in an audit is to prepare your data and documentation. This includes gathering and organizing your policies, procedures, standards, guidelines, contracts, agreements, reports, logs, evidence, and any other relevant information that supports your security controls and practices. You also need to ensure that your data and documentation are accurate, complete, consistent, and up-to-date. By preparing your data and documentation, you can reduce the risk of errors, delays, and disputes, as well as demonstrate your compliance and maturity.

4 Communicate and collaborate

Another key step in an audit is to communicate and collaborate with your auditors and stakeholders. This includes establishing a clear and open communication channel, setting roles and responsibilities, defining expectations and deliverables, scheduling meetings and interviews, providing feedback and clarifications, and resolving issues and conflicts. You also need to involve and engage your staff, managers, partners, and customers, as appropriate, to ensure their awareness, support, and participation. By communicating and collaborating, you can build trust and rapport, as well as facilitate the audit process and outcome.

5 Review and analyze the results

Once the audit is completed, you need to review and analyze the results. This includes reading and understanding the audit report, which should contain the findings, recommendations, ratings, and conclusions of the assessment. You also need to compare and benchmark the results with your objectives, standards, and best practices, as well as with your previous or similar audits. By reviewing and analyzing the results, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, as well as opportunities and threats.

6 Implement and monitor the actions

The final step in an audit is to implement and monitor the actions. This includes developing and executing an action plan, which should outline the tasks, resources, timelines, and responsibilities for addressing the findings and recommendations of the audit. You also need to monitor and measure the progress and performance of the actions, as well as report and communicate the results and outcomes. By implementing and monitoring the actions, you can improve your security posture and readiness, as well as demonstrate your commitment and accountability.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?