Bridging the Gap Between Security and the Business: Internal Audit and IT Audit

In today's digital age, it is more critical than ever to bridge the gap between security and the business. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, organizations need to take a proactive approach to protecting their assets and reputation. Internal audit and IT audit play a vital role in ensuring an organization's security posture is aligned with its business objectives.

The Importance of Bridging the Gap

There are several reasons why it is important to bridge the gap between security and the business. First, it helps to ensure that security risks are being managed in a way that aligns with the organization's overall risk appetite. When internal audit and IT audit work together, they can develop a comprehensive understanding of the organization's risk landscape and identify areas where security controls need to be strengthened.

The Security Leader’s Communication Playbook: Bridging the Gap between Security and the Business (Internal Audit and IT Audit)

by Stephen Pedneault

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13410 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	394 pages

FREE

Second, bridging the gap between security and the business helps to improve communication and collaboration between different parts of the organization. When internal audit and IT audit have a clear understanding of each other's roles and responsibilities, they can work together more effectively to address security concerns and develop solutions that meet the needs of the business.

Finally, bridging the gap between security and the business helps to build trust and confidence between the two groups. When internal audit and IT audit are seen as working together to protect the organization, it creates a sense of unity and purpose. This can lead to a more positive and productive working relationship, which can benefit the entire organization.

Challenges to Bridging the Gap

There are a number of challenges to bridging the gap between security and the business. One challenge is that security and the business often have different perspectives. Security professionals are focused on protecting the organization's assets and reputation, while business leaders are focused on achieving their business goals. This can lead to tension and conflict between the two groups.

Another challenge is that security and the business often speak different languages. Security professionals use technical jargon that can be difficult for business leaders to understand. This can make it difficult to communicate about security risks and develop effective solutions.

Finally, there is often a lack of trust between security and the business. Business leaders may view security professionals as being too risk-averse, while security professionals may view business leaders as being too willing to take risks. This lack of trust can make it difficult to build a strong working relationship between the two groups.

Best Practices for Bridging the Gap

Despite the challenges, there are a number of best practices that organizations can follow to bridge the gap between security and the business. These best practices include:

• Establish a common understanding of risk. Internal audit and IT audit need to work together to develop a common understanding of the organization's risk landscape. This includes identifying the organization's most critical assets, understanding the threats that these assets face, and assessing the likelihood and impact of potential security breaches.
• Develop clear roles and responsibilities. Internal audit and IT audit need to have clear roles and responsibilities. This includes defining who is responsible for assessing security risks, developing and implementing security controls, and monitoring and reporting on security performance.
• Communicate effectively. Internal audit and IT audit need to communicate effectively with each other and with other parts of the organization. This includes using clear and concise language, providing timely updates on security risks, and seeking feedback from business leaders on security decisions.
• Build trust and relationships. Internal audit and IT audit need to build trust and relationships with each other and with other parts of the organization. This includes being open and honest about security concerns, being willing to compromise, and supporting each other's efforts to protect the organization.

Bridging the gap between security and the business is essential for protecting organizations from cyberattacks and other security threats. By working together, internal audit and IT audit can help organizations to develop a comprehensive security posture that is aligned with their business objectives. This can lead to improved security, reduced risk, and increased trust and confidence between security and the business.

The Security Leader’s Communication Playbook: Bridging the Gap between Security and the Business (Internal Audit and IT Audit)

by Stephen Pedneault

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13410 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	394 pages

FREE