What is a security audit?

A security audit is fundamentally an assessment of an organization's security policies, procedures, and controls. This process involves a thorough evaluation of how well an organization's cybersecurity measures align with its security goals and compliance requirements. During a security audit, auditors examine various aspects, including the effectiveness of security technologies, adherence to industry standards, and the implementation of best practices within the organization.

This form of assessment is crucial because it helps identify gaps in security, potential vulnerabilities, and areas that require improvement. By systematically reviewing the security framework, organizations can better understand their risk posture and take proactive measures to enhance their defenses against threats.

In contrast, evaluating financial statements pertains to financial audits and does not focus on security measures. Reviewing software usage centers around software inventory and compliance, rather than security policies or procedures. A survey of employee satisfaction with security measures may provide insight into user experience, but it does not constitute an official assessment of the organization's security posture.