An IS auditor has been asked to advise on the design and implementation of IT management best practices.
Which of the following actions would impair the auditor's independence?
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A. B. C. D.C.
As an IS auditor, maintaining independence is critical to ensure objectivity and impartiality in performing audit tasks. Independence means the ability to maintain an unbiased perspective and avoid conflicts of interest.
Among the given options, providing consulting advice for managing applications (Option A) and designing an embedded audit module (Option B) could impair the auditor's independence.
Option A involves providing consulting advice, which is considered a consulting service and is outside the scope of the audit function. The auditor may be asked to provide such advice, but it would be better to refer it to an independent consulting firm. The provision of consulting services would involve the auditor making management decisions, which could impair the auditor's independence.
Option B involves designing an embedded audit module, which means designing a control mechanism to monitor system activities continually. Although the auditor may have the necessary expertise to design such a module, it is better to involve an external party to design it to maintain independence. The auditor's involvement in the design of the audit module could lead to a conflict of interest if the auditor were also required to audit the same module later.
Option C, implementing risk response on management's behalf, and Option D, evaluating the risk management process, do not impair the auditor's independence, as these actions are within the scope of the audit function.
In summary, Option A and Option B could impair the auditor's independence, whereas Option C and Option D would not.