IS Auditor's Checklist: Verifying Organization's Information Security Policies

B.

When reviewing an organization's information security policies, an IS auditor should verify that the policies have been defined primarily on the basis of a risk management process.

A. Industry best practices: Industry best practices are helpful guidelines, but they may not be appropriate for every organization or every situation. Using industry best practices as the primary basis for defining information security policies may result in policies that are not tailored to the organization's specific risks and requirements.

B. An information security framework: An information security framework provides a structured approach for developing and implementing information security policies and procedures. However, the framework itself is not sufficient to define policies. The policies should be based on the organization's specific risks and requirements.

C. Past information security incidents: Past incidents can be useful in identifying vulnerabilities and risks that need to be addressed, but they should not be the sole basis for defining policies. Policies should be proactive rather than reactive.

D. A risk management process: A risk management process is the most appropriate basis for defining information security policies. Risk management involves identifying, analyzing, evaluating, and treating risks. Policies developed through a risk management process are tailored to the organization's specific risks and requirements, and they are designed to reduce the likelihood and impact of security incidents.

In conclusion, an IS auditor should verify that an organization's information security policies have been defined primarily on the basis of a risk management process. This ensures that the policies are tailored to the organization's specific risks and requirements, and are proactive rather than reactive.