Information technology audit approach for the assessment of software patch management

Abstract: Computer software is ubiquitous and is driven extensively by our information-based society. However, little consideration is given to the complex task of developing software, which may involve conflicting objectives. Developing software that is free from material defects is the ultimate goal for software developers; however, due to its cost and complexity, it is a goal that is unlikely to be achieved. As a consequence of the inevitable defects that manifest within computer software, the task of software patch management becomes a key focus area for software companies, IT departments, and even end users. Audit departments, as part of their responsibilities, are required to provide assurance on the patching process and therefore need to understand the various decisionmaking factors. The task of patching software to rectify inherent flaws may be a simple operation on computer systems that are of low significance, but is far more complex and critical on high-risk systems. Software flaws that exist within computer systems may put confidential information at risk and may also compromise the availability of such systems. One of the environments that is extremely susceptible to software flaws is the South African banking system, where not only is confidentiality a critical imperative, but also where high system availability is expected by the banking public. The study investigated the recommended approaches for the task of software patching, with a view to balancing the sometimes conflicting requirements of security and system availability. The reasons for software patching, the discipline of risk management relating to IT and software patching are also identified as fundamental to the audit approach for assessing the process. The study found that there are a number of key aspects that are required to ensure a successful patching process and that the internal auditors of the ‘big four’ South African banks considered most of these factors to be important. Despite these organisations being extremely mature from a risk management perspective, the auditors believed that the patching process may benefit from an increased focus on risk management.M.Com. (Computer Auditing