Once an organization's risks are identified, what would be the next step to ensure resources are properly allocated to manage those risks?
Answer : B
After identifying an organization's risks, the next crucial step is to assess those risks. Risk assessment involves evaluating the identified risks to determine their potential impact and likelihood. This assessment helps prioritize the risks, enabling the organization to allocate resources effectively to manage the most significant risks. Without assessing the risks, the organization would lack the necessary information to make informed decisions on how to respond to and mitigate these risks.
The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Standards and Practice Advisories.
COSO Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Framework.
'Internal Auditing: Assurance & Advisory Services' by IIA, Chapter on Risk Assessment.
Which of the following represents a deficiency in the control environment?
Answer : C
A deficiency in the control environment is represented by hiring procedures not including background checks for prospective job candidates. This lack of background checks can lead to hiring personnel who may not have integrity or the appropriate qualifications, increasing risk to the organization. Reference: COSO Framework, which discusses components of a strong control environment, including the importance of conducting thorough background checks as part of personnel standards.
Management assessed the organization's risk of expanding operations into a new, but volatile, region and began looking for a compatible local partner to manage sales and distribution. Which of the following best describes this risk management technique?
Answer : D
The risk management technique described by finding a local partner to manage sales and distribution in a new, volatile region is best characterized as 'Sharing.' This approach involves sharing the risk with another party that can better manage or absorb part of the risk, thus reducing the organization's direct exposure to potential adverse outcomes. Reference: Risk management literature and practices, including frameworks such as ISO 31000.
Which of the following best describes the risk contained in an initial public offering for a new stock?
Answer : C
In the context of an initial public offering (IPO), the best description of the risk involved is 'inherent risk.' Inherent risk refers to the exposure inherent in the company's operations or industry without considering the effectiveness of any risk management measures. An IPO's inherent risks include market volatility, investor sentiment, regulatory changes, and economic factors that could affect the offering's success. Reference: Financial risk management literature and common usage in financial audits.
Which of the following statements is true regarding how the scope of a consulting engagement should be established?
Answer : A
In a consulting engagement, it is generally acceptable and often expected that the engagement client will determine the scope of the engagement to ensure that the consulting services meet their specific needs. This collaborative approach helps in aligning the audit services with the desired outcomes of the client while maintaining the flexibility needed in consulting engagements. However, the internal auditor must ensure that such scope setting does not impair their objectivity. Reference: The IIA's Practice Advisories on Consulting Engagements
During an audit of the purchasing department, an internal auditor identifies significant issues that could affect the organization's financial reporting. Management disagrees with the audit results. Which of the following responses best demonstrates the internal auditor has the necessary competencies related to professional Judgment and conflict management?
Answer : D
Demonstrating competencies in professional judgment and conflict management involves engaging in dialogue to understand differing viewpoints and resolve disagreements. By meeting with management to discuss their concerns, the auditor shows a commitment to understanding the issues and working collaboratively to address any misunderstandings or disagreements, which is a critical aspect of effective audit practice. Reference: Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) - International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing and Practice Advisories on Conflict Resolution
Which of the following should a general internal auditor be able to characterize as an IT-related risk?
Answer : D
Audit logs are crucial for monitoring and reviewing the activities within IT systems, especially those processing personal data. The lack of audit logs presents a significant IT-related risk as it undermines the ability to trace any unauthorized or inappropriate access and actions within the system, thereby impacting the integrity and security of data. Reference: Best practices in IT security and internal control frameworks like COBIT and ISO/IEC 27001.