Master the essentials of IT and cloud auditing with this comprehensive course. You'll gain a deep understanding of cybersecurity audits, IT controls, compliance frameworks, and risk management. Learn to perform audits effectively, identify security gaps, and ensure compliance with industry standards like NIST, ISO 27001, and SOC audits.
The course starts with cybersecurity fundamentals, distinguishing information security from cybersecurity, and exploring organizational structures. You'll then dive into IT audit methodologies, covering internal and external audit roles, IT controls, risk assessments, and compliance testing. Frameworks such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, and COBIT will be discussed in detail, ensuring a solid grasp of industry best practices.
Next, you'll explore the entire audit lifecycle, from planning to reporting. Hands-on lessons guide you through technical testing, including identity management, privileged access control, vulnerability assessments, and incident response. You'll also cover cloud governance, cloud audit frameworks, and security testing within cloud environments.
Ideal for IT professionals, auditors, and security specialists, this course is designed for those with a foundational knowledge of IT and security concepts. Whether you're preparing for a career in IT auditing or aiming to enhance your expertise, this course provides the practical skills needed to succeed.
Overview
Syllabus
- Introduction - Cyber Security Audit Fundamentals
- In this module, we will introduce the fundamental concepts of cybersecurity audits, distinguishing between cybersecurity and information security. We will explore key principles that drive secure data management and examine how cybersecurity integrates within an organization's structure to enhance defense mechanisms.
- Cybersecurity Audit
- In this module, we will explore the different types of IT audits and their role in assessing information systems security. We will examine the responsibilities of internal and external auditors, gain insight into cybersecurity audits, and learn how to conduct an effective cybersecurity audit.
- IT Controls
- In this module, we will introduce IT controls and their role in ensuring system integrity and security. We will explore different types of IT and cybersecurity controls, discuss how to design effective controls, and examine methods for identifying weaknesses and improving security measures.
- Cybersecurity Frameworks & Standards
- In this module, we will explore prominent cybersecurity frameworks and standards that guide organizations in mitigating risks. We will examine compliance requirements such as NIST, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and PCI DSS and learn how auditors utilize these frameworks to assess security controls.
- Cybersecurity Audit Process
- In this module, we will provide a structured approach to the cybersecurity audit process, covering the planning, fieldwork, reporting, and follow-up phases. We will explore the key responsibilities of IT audit teams and the methodologies used to assess security risks.
- Performing Cybersecurity Audit
- In this module, we will walk through the cybersecurity audit process in detail, covering key testing areas such as access management, vulnerability assessment, patch management, and incident response. We will also discuss best practices for reporting findings and following up on recommendations.
- Introduction - The Ultimate Guide to IT Auditing
- In this module, we will introduce IT auditing fundamentals, including its role in ensuring regulatory compliance. We will discuss the importance of IT audits, the SOX Act, and how IT audit frameworks help organizations maintain security and transparency.
- IT Audit Frameworks
- In this module, we will explore essential IT audit frameworks, including COSO and COBIT. We will analyze their role in guiding IT governance, risk management, and control assessments to ensure secure and compliant IT environments.
- Types of IT Audit
- In this module, we will examine different types of IT audits, including financial statement audits, internal audits, and attestation engagements. We will also compare the responsibilities of internal and external auditors in assessing IT security and compliance.
- IT Controls - ITGC & ITAC
- In this module, we will explore IT controls, focusing on ITGC and ITAC. We will examine access controls, change management, system development life cycle (SDLC) controls, and their impact on maintaining secure IT environments.
- IT Audit Process
- In this module, we will review the IT audit process, breaking down the planning, fieldwork, reporting, and follow-up phases. We will discuss best practices for gathering evidence, documenting findings, and ensuring audit compliance.
- Understanding Control Design & Operation
- In this module, we will explore control design and its role in IT security. We will discuss how to identify control weaknesses, differentiate between key and non-key controls, and assess the risk levels of applications. Additionally, we will examine audit documentation, such as workpapers, and define the scope of IT infrastructure testing.
- Performing an IT Audit
- In this module, we will perform an in-depth IT audit, covering key phases such as planning, fieldwork, and reporting. We will test various IT controls, including access management, change management, and system development life cycle (SDLC) controls, while analyzing audit results for deficiencies.
- Attestation Engagement Test - SOC Audit
- In this module, we will explore SOC audits, focusing on their role in evaluating service organization controls. We will review SOC categories, testing requirements, and reporting formats while learning how to assess SOC reports for compliance and security effectiveness.
- Introduction - Cloud Audit Essentials
- In this module, we will introduce cloud auditing and its role in securing cloud environments. We will cover essential cloud computing concepts, review its history and benefits, and differentiate between cloud deployment models and service models such as IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS.
- Cloud Governance
- In this module, we will explore cloud governance and its significance in maintaining security and compliance. We will discuss cloudification, risk management, and the shared responsibility model, which defines security roles between cloud providers and customers.
- Audit & Frameworks
- In this module, we will explore audit frameworks used in cloud environments. We will examine cloud governance frameworks, internal controls, and methodologies for identifying and addressing control weaknesses to strengthen cloud security.
- Cloud Audit
- In this module, we will cover the cloud audit process, including planning, fieldwork, reporting, and follow-up. We will analyze CSA control domains and leverage frameworks such as the Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) to assess cloud security effectiveness.
- Cloud Controls Testing
- In this module, we will perform cloud security controls testing, covering key areas such as access management, data security, logging, change management, and incident response. We will also review business continuity planning to ensure resilience in cloud-based services.
- Cloud Service Providers (CSP) Environment
- In this module, we will explore how to assess cloud service provider (CSP) environments for compliance and security risks. We will review SOC reports, analyze different SOC audit categories, and learn how to interpret and validate findings in CSP assessments.
- Introduction - IT Audit Application Walkthrough
- In this module, we will introduce IT audit application walkthroughs, covering the process of gathering information through questionnaires. We will discuss best practices for engaging with audit clients and reviewing system and application configurations for compliance.
- Walkthrough Questionnaire
- In this module, we will focus on walkthrough questionnaires used in IT audits. We will cover critical areas such as system access, password configurations, change management, and data backup, ensuring a structured approach to collecting audit evidence.
- Application Walkthrough
- In this module, we will perform an application walkthrough to assess security measures. We will review user access provisioning, system configurations, and privilege management while working collaboratively with IT teams and application owners.
- Backup & Recovery
- In this module, we will review backup and recovery controls as part of IT audits. We will assess data recovery plans, password configurations, and change management processes while documenting findings from walkthrough meetings.
- Getting Ready for Your Interview
- In this module, we will explore best practices for preparing for an IT audit job interview. We will cover resume review, research techniques, punctuality, and post-interview follow-up strategies.
- IT Audit Practical Interview Questions & Answers I
- In this module, we will prepare for practical IT audit interviews by discussing common questions and effective response strategies. We will cover key topics such as control testing, IT audit processes, sample size determination, and risk assessments. Additionally, we will explore how to articulate experience with cloud security and audit frameworks.
- IT Audit Practical Interview Questions & Answers II
- In this module, we will continue refining responses to IT audit interview questions with a focus on access controls, change management, and backup & recovery testing. We will also discuss common issues encountered during audits and how to approach SOX and SOC audit-related questions.
- IT Audit Technical Interview Questions & Answers
- In this module, we will focus on technical IT audit interview questions. Topics include IT audit frameworks (e.g., COBIT, COSO), IT audit tools, controls testing, risk prioritization, and IT audit report formats. We will also discuss the role of an IT auditor and strategies for handling audit challenges.
- IT Audit Behavioral Interview Questions & Answers
- In this module, we will prepare for behavioral IT audit interview questions. We will discuss how to handle difficult audit outcomes, manage resistance from stakeholders, and effectively communicate findings to both technical and non-technical teams. Additionally, we will cover common workplace scenarios, such as teamwork, leadership, and personal development.
Taught by
Packt - Course Instructors
