Before evaluating management's risk assessment of information systems, an IS auditor should first review what?

Before an IS auditor evaluates management's risk assessment of information systems, it is essential to first understand the threats and vulnerabilities that could impact the assets. This foundational knowledge allows the auditor to assess the relevance and adequacy of the risk assessment process conducted by management.

By reviewing the threats and vulnerabilities, the auditor gains insight into the risks that the organization faces, including potential attacks, system weaknesses, and environmental factors that could exploit those weaknesses. Understanding this context is critical as it helps the auditor evaluate whether management has conducted a thorough and realistic risk assessment by identifying appropriate risks associated with their specific information systems.

Once the auditor has a clear grasp of the threats and vulnerabilities, they can better assess the effectiveness of the existing controls and determine whether the risk management strategies are aligned with the identified risks. This structured approach ensures that the evaluation of the risk assessment is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of the actual threats present in the environment.