Auditing Chapter 12 Quiz

The given correct answer is "Hardware controls." This is because hardware controls refer to the physical security measures implemented to protect the hardware components of a system, such as locks, alarms, and surveillance cameras. While hardware controls are important for overall system security, they are not specifically categorized as application controls. Application controls focus on the software and logical security measures, such as input controls, processing controls, and output controls, which are designed to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and security of data within an application.

From an auditing perspective, all of the given options are important. Organizational changes can impact the control environment and the effectiveness of internal controls, therefore they need to be assessed. The visibility of information is crucial for auditors to ensure that information is accurate, complete, and accessible. The potential for material misstatement is a key concern for auditors as it can affect the reliability of financial statements. Therefore, all of these factors are important from an auditing perspective.

In an automated environment, auditors may place too much reliance on the information provided by an information system. This means that they may overly rely on the accuracy and completeness of the system's output without conducting sufficient independent verification. This can be a significant risk because if the information system is flawed or compromised, it can lead to incorrect or misleading audit conclusions. Auditors should always exercise caution and perform appropriate testing and validation to ensure the reliability of the information obtained from automated systems.

Over-reliance on computer-generated reports is not a benefit of using IT-based controls because it can lead to a false sense of security and a lack of critical thinking. Relying solely on computer-generated reports without human review and analysis can result in overlooking errors or fraudulent activities that may not be detected by the system. It is important to have a balance between automated controls and human oversight to ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial information.

Increased human involvement is not a risk specific to IT environments because in any environment, whether IT or non-IT, human involvement is always present. It is a general factor that can affect the overall risk in any situation, not just in IT environments. The other options mentioned, such as reliance on hardware and software, loss of data due to insufficient backup, and reduced segregation of duties, are all specific risks that are commonly associated with IT environments.

An improved audit trail is not a risk to IT systems. In fact, it is a beneficial measure that helps in enhancing the security and integrity of IT systems. An audit trail refers to a record of all activities and transactions within a system, allowing for easier monitoring and detection of any unauthorized or suspicious activities. It helps in identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities, ensuring compliance with regulations, and facilitating effective troubleshooting. Therefore, an improved audit trail is a protective measure rather than a risk to IT systems.

Increased reliance on IT typically leads to the replacement of manual controls with computer controls. This is because computer controls are more efficient, consistent, and reliable compared to manual controls. They can automate processes, perform calculations, and detect errors or anomalies in real-time. As a result, the organization can reduce the risk of human error, improve the accuracy and timeliness of information, and enhance the overall internal control system. On the other hand, the statement "Manual controls replace automated controls" contradicts this trend and does not represent an enhancement to internal control.

Observation is the least useful audit procedure for gathering evidence on significant computer processes because it involves simply watching and noting down what is happening without actively testing or verifying the accuracy and effectiveness of the computer processes. While observation can provide some insight into how the processes are being performed, it does not provide concrete evidence or allow for the identification of potential errors or weaknesses in the system. Other audit procedures such as documentation, test decks, and generalized audit software are more effective in gathering evidence and evaluating the reliability of computer processes.