AUI3704
ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2025
,Topic 2: Using Social Media in Internal Audit
Question 2.1: What are the key benefits of using social media in the internal audit
profession?
Social media offers a wide range of benefits for internal auditors and audit functions
when used professionally and strategically. These benefits enhance knowledge-sharing,
stakeholder engagement, background research, and even real-time risk detection.
1. Real-Time Monitoring and Risk Identification
Social media provides internal auditors with real-time access to information that may
help identify reputational risks, employee dissatisfaction, fraud, or unethical practices.
Monitoring platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn can reveal emerging issues
before they escalate.
Example: Complaints by employees or customers posted online might signal problems
with controls, compliance, or service delivery that warrant further audit investigation
(ISACA, 2022).
2. Background Information for Audits
Auditors can use social media to collect supplementary background information on
entities or individuals involved in audit engagements. This is particularly useful during
the planning phase when assessing the audit environment or identifying conflicts of
interest.
Example: A search on LinkedIn can provide insight into a manager’s job role or
connections that may affect segregation of duties (IIA, 2021).
, 3. Professional Networking and Collaboration
Platforms like LinkedIn facilitate networking and collaboration among audit professionals
globally. Internal auditors can engage with experts, share best practices, and stay
informed about emerging trends in governance, risk, and compliance (ACCA, 2021).
4. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Audit professionals can access webinars, training sessions, and discussions hosted on
social platforms. These resources promote skill enhancement and awareness of
industry developments.
Example: Following internal audit thought leaders or organisations like the IIA on social
media helps auditors stay updated on standards, tools, and ethical challenges.
5. Stakeholder Engagement and Transparency
Some audit functions use social media to share audit outcomes, awareness campaigns,
or governance tips. This enhances organisational transparency and builds public trust.
Question 2.2: What are the risks associated with using social media in the
internal audit profession?
Despite the benefits, social media also presents significant risks that may compromise
the integrity, independence, and confidentiality of internal audit functions.
1. Breach of Confidentiality
Auditors may unintentionally disclose sensitive information when posting or interacting
on social media. Even general comments can sometimes reveal details about ongoing
audits or internal issues.
ASSIGNMENT 4 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2025
,Topic 2: Using Social Media in Internal Audit
Question 2.1: What are the key benefits of using social media in the internal audit
profession?
Social media offers a wide range of benefits for internal auditors and audit functions
when used professionally and strategically. These benefits enhance knowledge-sharing,
stakeholder engagement, background research, and even real-time risk detection.
1. Real-Time Monitoring and Risk Identification
Social media provides internal auditors with real-time access to information that may
help identify reputational risks, employee dissatisfaction, fraud, or unethical practices.
Monitoring platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn can reveal emerging issues
before they escalate.
Example: Complaints by employees or customers posted online might signal problems
with controls, compliance, or service delivery that warrant further audit investigation
(ISACA, 2022).
2. Background Information for Audits
Auditors can use social media to collect supplementary background information on
entities or individuals involved in audit engagements. This is particularly useful during
the planning phase when assessing the audit environment or identifying conflicts of
interest.
Example: A search on LinkedIn can provide insight into a manager’s job role or
connections that may affect segregation of duties (IIA, 2021).
, 3. Professional Networking and Collaboration
Platforms like LinkedIn facilitate networking and collaboration among audit professionals
globally. Internal auditors can engage with experts, share best practices, and stay
informed about emerging trends in governance, risk, and compliance (ACCA, 2021).
4. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Audit professionals can access webinars, training sessions, and discussions hosted on
social platforms. These resources promote skill enhancement and awareness of
industry developments.
Example: Following internal audit thought leaders or organisations like the IIA on social
media helps auditors stay updated on standards, tools, and ethical challenges.
5. Stakeholder Engagement and Transparency
Some audit functions use social media to share audit outcomes, awareness campaigns,
or governance tips. This enhances organisational transparency and builds public trust.
Question 2.2: What are the risks associated with using social media in the
internal audit profession?
Despite the benefits, social media also presents significant risks that may compromise
the integrity, independence, and confidentiality of internal audit functions.
1. Breach of Confidentiality
Auditors may unintentionally disclose sensitive information when posting or interacting
on social media. Even general comments can sometimes reveal details about ongoing
audits or internal issues.
