Free OCEG GRCA Practice Exam with Questions & Answers

A NEGATIVE assurance opinion or statement indicates that, based on the procedures performed and evidence obtained, the assurance provider did not identify any reasons to believe that the subject matter does not conform to the applicable criteria. This form of opinion does not provide absolute assurance but rather limited assurance, suggesting that nothing came to the auditor's attention that causes them to believe the subject matter is not fairly stated.References:

AICPA Auditing Standards

IIA Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing

The level of assurance required for an assessment can vary depending on the purpose, scope, and objectives of the assessment. It is crucial to define the desired level of assurance (low, medium, or high) before beginning the assessment to ensure that the approach, methodology, and resources allocated are appropriate. This helps in setting clear expectations and aligning the assessment process with the organization's risk tolerance and regulatory requirements.References:

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

COSO Enterprise Risk Management – Integrating with Strategy and Performance

Any and all of the listed roles can conduct assurance activities provided they have the appropriate purpose and parameters defined. Assurance activities are not limited to a specific function but can be performed by various roles within an organization, such as Internal Audit, Compliance, Risk Management, and Information Security, among others. The key is that these roles must operate with the proper scope, authority, and independence to provide credible and reliable assurance.References:

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework

ISO 31000:2018 - Risk management – Guidelines

Management is defined as "internally directing, controlling and evaluating an entity, process or resource." Management involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of an organization, making decisions, setting policies, and ensuring that the organization's resources are used effectively to achieve its goals. This function includes planning, organizing, leading, and controlling organizational activities to meet established objectives.References:

ISO 9001:2015 - Quality management systems – Requirements

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework

When performing an assessment, it is important to remain flexible and adjust the execution plan as new information is uncovered. This adaptive approach ensures that the assessment remains relevant and effective in identifying issues and areas for improvement. Rigidly adhering to theoriginal plan, regardless of new findings, can result in missed opportunities to address critical risks and controls. Adjusting procedures as appropriate based on new information enhances the overall quality and effectiveness of the assessment.References:

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework

If follow-up discovers that actions and controls haven't been implemented, it is important to use professional judgment and work with the action owner to understand why the plans have not been implemented. Immediate escalation to the board without understanding the context may not be the most effective approach. Engaging with the action owner can help identify obstacles and facilitate a constructive resolution. Escalation should be considered if there is a significant risk or if there is consistent non-compliance despite reasonable efforts to address the issue.References:

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

IIA Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing

The timing of assessment notification should depend on the purpose and parameters of the assessment and whether fraud is suspected. In cases where fraud is suspected, notifying too early might allow those involved to conceal evidence. Conversely, early notification can facilitate better planning and coordination for assessments where fraud is not a concern. The decision should be based on the specific context and objectives of the assessment.References:

ISO 19011:2018 - Guidelines for auditing management systems

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework

Reasonable assurance is considered a high level of assurance. It indicates that the assurance provider has conducted a thorough and rigorous evaluation, although it does not guarantee absolute certainty. Reasonable assurance is commonly used in auditing and risk management contexts to provide stakeholders with confidence that the organization is operating effectively and complying with relevant standards and regulations.References:

ISO 31000:2018 - Risk management – Guidelines

AICPA Auditing Standards

Governance is defined as "externally directing, controlling and evaluating an entity, process, or resource". It involves establishing policies, and continuous monitoring of their proper implementation, by the members of the governing body of an organization. It ensures that the entity is operating effectively and in alignment with its objectives and regulatory requirements. Governance encompasses a wide range of activities, including strategic planning, decision-making, and oversight, all aimed at achieving the entity's goals while managing risk and ensuring compliance.References:

ISO 38500:2015 - Information technology - Governance of IT for the organization

OECD Principles of Corporate Governance

Follow-up on the implementation status of recommendations based on high priority, due or overdue items, or time-sensitive items is known as Follow-Up by Targeted Review. This approach focuses on areas that are of critical importance or where timely implementation is essential. It helps ensure that the most significant risks are addressed promptly and that any delays in addressing recommendations are identified and managed.References:

IIA Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing

COSO Internal Control – Integrated Framework