What is an ISO 27001 Internal Audit? (2024)

What is an ISO 27001 internal audit?

An ISO 27001 internal audit involves examining an organization’s Information Security Management System (ISMS) before undergoing an ISO audit with an external auditor. The internal audit aims to help identify gaps or deficiencies that could affect an organization’s ISMS and impact its ability to meet its intended objectives and complete an initial or annual ISO 27001 certification audit.

The internal audit function is a requirement under the ISO 27001 standard. However, unlike a certification review where an organization must use an external third party to conduct the audit, either staff within an organization or an independent third party—such as a consulting firm—can perform an audit.

When determining its approach to the execution of an internal audit, a company must:

  • Ensure the auditor is objective and impartial, meaning there are no conflicts of interest and that appropriate separation of duties are in place (i.e., the auditor has not implemented or does not operate or monitor any of the controls under audit).
  • Ensure the auditor is qualified and competent regarding auditing processes and procedures, as well as the ISO 27001 standard.


The internal audit results, including nonconformities, should be shared with a company’s ISMS governing body and senior management to ensure oversight and identify issues before proceeding to the external audit.

What is an ISO 27001 Internal Audit? (2024)

FAQs

What is an ISO 27001 Internal Audit? ›

An ISO 27001 audit is a review process that ensures your organization's information security management system (ISMS) aligns with the most recent information security best practices, as defined by ISO/IEC 27001:2013 guidelines.

What is the ISO 27001 internal audit service? ›

ISO27001 Internal Audit Services

The audits will consist of a combination of document review and remote discussions with appropriate management and staff. Relevant documented information will be reviewed as evidence that the defined processes and procedures are being followed.

What is ISO 27001 Cert for internal auditor? ›

This Certification enables employees to identify any risks that pose a threat to the effectiveness of the organization's Information Security Management System. The Certification will provide both technical knowledge and practical skills essential to become a competent internal auditor.

What is the purpose of ISO internal audit? ›

The purpose of the ISO 9001 internal audit is to assess the effectiveness of the quality management system and the organization's overall performance.

What is a key requirement that internal audits must follow to comply with ISO 27001? ›

How to Comply: Your audit program should be documented to include: The frequency and timing of internal audit functions, Methods by which the internal audit will be conducted, and. Assignment of responsibilities determining documentation requirements for the planning, performance, and reporting of internal audits.

Is internal audit mandatory for ISO 27001? ›

Clause 9 of the management requirements for ISO 27001 is performance evaluation, for which you must conduct internal audits at planned intervals.

What is audit checklist ISO 27001? ›

An ISO 27001 checklist is a list of requirements organizations have to meet to become ISO 27001 certified. Creating a checklist can help organize your efforts, identify any gaps in your compliance posture, and ensure you're fully prepared for a certification audit.

Who performs ISO 27001 audits? ›

ISO 27001 audit frequency
Internal auditsRecertification audits
Performed byIndependent party (internal or external resource) with sufficient expertiseCertification body
Audit frequencyOnce every yearOnce every three years
Sep 4, 2023

How to prepare for ISO 27001 audit? ›

How to prepare for an ISO 27001 Audit?
  1. Check if the key processes of the ISMS are implemented and operational. ...
  2. Prepare all the documentation for the audit beforehand. ...
  3. Make sure that evidential records are accessible and easy to locate. ...
  4. Prepare all employees for audit interviews.
Apr 11, 2022

How much does an ISO 27001 auditor make? ›

Iso 27001 Lead Auditor Salary. $80,500 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $132,500 is the 75th percentile.

How do I prepare for an ISO internal audit? ›

6 tips to ace your ISO audit
  1. Be well-prepared. The ISO certification should be a living management process that is constantly updated and optimized. ...
  2. Take internal audits seriously. ...
  3. Implement corrective actions. ...
  4. Don't forget your management review. ...
  5. Correctly monitor objectives. ...
  6. Ensure that everything is clean.

Who can conduct ISO internal audit? ›

Internal audits can be accomplished by an internal employee or a 3rd Party, like an ISO consultant.

How does an ISO 27001 audit work? ›

An ISO 27001 audit involves a competent and objective auditor reviewing: The ISMS or elements of it and testing that it meets the standard's requirements, The organisation's own information requirements, objectives for the ISMS, That the policies, processes, and other controls are practical and efficient.

What type of audit is ISO 27001? ›

There are generally four main audit categories for ISO 27001: Certification audit, Internal audit, Surveillance audit, and Recertification audit. Each of these audits is important in its own way, and each one needs to be performed correctly for your organisation to achieve and maintain certification.

How long does an ISO 27001 audit take? ›

The certification audit process can take 2-3 months and is broken down into two stages. During Stage 1 audits, the auditor reviews ISMS documentation to make sure policies and procedures are designed properly. They may also make suggestions for how the organization can improve its ISMS to make it more secure.

What is internal audit services? ›

Definition of Internal Auditing

It helps an organization accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes.

What is internal audit advisory services? ›

Internal auditing is an independent, objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve an organization's operations.

How much is ISO 27001 internal audit? ›

The price will vary based on the auditor you hire, how complex your ISMS is, and other factors. If you expect your audit to be more time-intensive, it will likely also cost more. Expect the price to be in the $14,000-$16,000 range.

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