Once you find out that data breaches resulted in $3.86 million in global costs in 2018, you’ll want to be sure that it never happens to your business.
Conducting IT audits can bridge any gaps in your company’s security and ensures that you have the highest level of protection against hackers. If you’re not sure how to go about an IT audit, take a look at our essential IT audit checklist.
1. Protect Mobile Devices
When 77% of American adults own a smartphone, it’s safe to say that almost everyone has one.
Even companies are turning to mobile devices to increase productivity in their offices. While this comes with a host of advantages, it can also put your company’s data at risk.
The fact that mobile devices frequently access untrusted networks, connect to other systems, and often contain business and personal data make breaches more likely and more severe. Mobile devices can also download apps from unknown developers, and don’t have the same security that computers do.
IT auditors should watch out for mobile device usage policies. Your company should implement mobile security strategies that result in punishment if it’s not followed.
Your company should also utilize frameworks. These frameworks should outline and create a set of rules for mobile device usage in your company.
2. Test the Cloud
You might think that the cloud is totally secure. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. The possibility of data breaches still exists when you store your data in the cloud.
That’s why your audit checklist should include a portion on cloud security. Cloud technology itself isn’t inherently safe–data leaks and infiltration can occur. This is often caused when you’re not able to establish a security policy between your company and the cloud service provider.
To prevent data breaches, have an IT department audit test your cloud provider at least once every year. Your company should also have a disaster plan ready in case of a data breach. Create a fake disaster, and find out if the plan actually helps your company recover from a security breach.
You can also opt to use certain tools that keep your SaaS cloud services and apps safe. A cloud access security broker (CASB) is another option that places a barrier between your clients and your cloud service provider.
3. Secure Social Media Risks
With a large majority of the population active on social media, it can either make or break your company’s reputation. A simple post or video can negatively affect your brand.
An IT security audit checklist should always have a way to gauge your company’s success online. Be aware of your customers’ and your workers’ interaction with your brand.
If your company’s reputation becomes a problem, use a Brand Protection Committee. They’re used by companies to act on social media threats and make sure that your brand doesn’t get tarnished.
Making Your IT Audit Checklist
An IT audit checklist doesn’t have to follow a single procedure. Different companies have different needs, making checklist creation versatile. Identifying your company’s weak spots can help you determine what areas you should include on your IT auditor checklist.
You’re getting ready for a cybersecurity audit, but you don’t have the time to perform it yourself. In that case, read our article on the pros and cons of outsourcing your cybersecurity audit.
