An IS auditor learns that a web application within the audit scope has a vulnerability that could lead to the exposure of sensitive data. Which of the following should the auditor do FIRST?
An IS auditor learns that a web application within the audit scope has a vulnerability that could lead to the exposure of sensitive data. Which of the following should the auditor do FIRST?
When an IS auditor identifies a vulnerability that could lead to the exposure of sensitive data, the first step should be to notify management and system business owners. This is essential to ensure that immediate actions can be taken to address the vulnerability and mitigate any potential risk. Delaying notification can result in data exposure and increased risk to the organization. Once management is informed, further steps such as risk assessment, determining the application version, and recommending compensating controls can follow.
Notifying management and business owners of the problem will allow for a rapid response so that appropriate measures can be taken to prevent sensitive data from being leaked. Implementing compensating controls is a matter to be considered at a later stage.