Which of the following is the BEST source of information for an IS auditor to use when determining whether an organization's information security policy is adequate?
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A. B. C. D.D.
As an IS auditor, when determining whether an organization's information security policy is adequate, it is important to consider a variety of sources of information. Each of the options provided in the question may provide some valuable insights into the effectiveness of an organization's information security policy, but one source is typically considered the best: risk assessment results.
A risk assessment is a systematic process of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating information security risks. It helps to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities to an organization's information assets and determine the likelihood and potential impact of those risks. The results of a risk assessment can provide valuable information to an IS auditor about the effectiveness of an organization's information security policy.
Industry benchmarks (Option A) can be a useful source of information for an IS auditor, but they may not always provide relevant or accurate information about an organization's specific risks and security needs. Information security program plans (Option B) can be helpful, but they may not necessarily reflect the reality of how well the policy is being implemented and enforced. Penetration test results (Option C) can provide useful information about specific vulnerabilities, but they do not provide a comprehensive view of an organization's overall risk posture.
In contrast, risk assessment results (Option D) provide a holistic view of an organization's information security risks and how those risks are being addressed. A comprehensive risk assessment will typically cover a wide range of areas, including technical vulnerabilities, physical security, personnel security, and regulatory compliance. By reviewing the results of a risk assessment, an IS auditor can gain a deep understanding of an organization's information security risks and how the organization is addressing those risks through its policy and control frameworks.
In summary, while all of the options provided in the question may provide some valuable information to an IS auditor, risk assessment results are typically considered the best source of information for evaluating the adequacy of an organization's information security policy.