What is the purpose of conducting security audits?

The purpose of conducting security audits is fundamentally about evaluating the effectiveness of security controls in place and ensuring that an organization adheres to relevant policies and regulations. By systematically reviewing both the technological and procedural measures, security audits help identify vulnerabilities, gaps, and areas for improvement in the overall security posture of an organization. This assessment not only highlights whether existing security measures are functioning as intended but also checks compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, which is crucial for avoiding potential penalties and maintaining stakeholder trust.

While changing security policies, justifying software upgrades, or reducing operating costs can be secondary outcomes of the audit process or related discussions, they do not encapsulate the primary aim of such audits. The focus lies on assessing and improving security to protect assets and information effectively.