Question # $1$: Internal IT Auditor

Scenario # $1$:

You are an internal IT auditor working for a medium$-$sized financial services firm. As part of an IT Audit and Control team, you are tasked with performing a comprehensive review of the organization$$s IT infrastructure to verify compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards. During the audit, you identify several potential vulnerabilities in the network security architecture, such as outdated software patches and insufficient access controls. However, you also face resistance from certain departments that are hesitant to implement the recommended security measures, citing concerns about possible operational disruptions.

How would you approach this situation as an internal auditor, ensuring a thorough risk assessment while prioritizing operational continuity? Describe the strategies you would use to effectively communicate your findings to senior management and work collaboratively with stakeholders to address the identified vulnerabilities, minimizing impact on business operations.

Question # $2$: External IT Auditor

Scenario # $2$:

You are an external IT auditor engaged by a multinational corporation to evaluate the effectiveness of its IT controls and governance framework. As part of your assessment, you conduct interviews with key personnel, review documentation, and perform technical evaluations of IT systems and processes. During the audit, you encounter resistance from certain departments that are hesitant to disclose sensitive information or grant access to critical systems for testing. Additionally, you identify discrepancies between reported performance metrics and actual operational practices, raising concerns about the reliability of internal reporting mechanisms.

How would you address these challenges as an external auditor, ensuring a thorough and accurate audit while preserving a professional relationship with the client? Explain the strategies you would use to overcome resistance, secure access to essential information and systems, and verify the accuracy of reported data. Additionally, discuss the importance of maintaining independence and objectivity throughout the audit to uphold the credibility of your findings and recommendations.