What is a security audit?

A security audit is defined as a systematic evaluation of security policies and controls. This process involves examining and assessing the effectiveness of an organization's security measures against established criteria or standards. The audit aims to identify vulnerabilities, ensuring that proper security protocols are in place to protect sensitive information and assets. This evaluation not only helps in verifying compliance with regulatory requirements but also supports organizations in understanding their security posture and making informed decisions to strengthen their overall security framework.

While other choices mention relevant processes, they do not specifically encompass the comprehensive examination of security practices that a security audit entails. For example, a review process for customer feedback focuses on customer satisfaction rather than internal security measures. Routine maintenance checks on technology generally pertain to operational efficiency and hardware or software upkeep, rather than the policies and controls governing security. A financial assessment is centered on evaluating an organization's financial health, which is unrelated to security protocols and risk management. Thus, the correct choice emphasizes the critical aspect of evaluating security measures systematically to enhance protection and compliance.