The CRF – Audit Framework (CRF–AF) is a structured guide for conducting effective cybersecurity audits. It helps organizations evaluate the strength of their safeguards, ensure compliance with internal and external standards, and identify opportunities for improvement. Whether you’re running a full internal audit program or just beginning to assess your defenses, this framework gives you the clarity and structure needed to audit with confidence.
Cybersecurity audits are essential—but without a standardized approach, they can become inconsistent, overly technical, or disconnected from business strategy. The CRF–AF bridges that gap, guiding organizations through a repeatable, reliable process for evaluating controls, measuring effectiveness, and improving governance. It’s not just about passing an audit—it’s about building a program that holds up under scrutiny.
The 2025 edition of the CRF–AF introduces a comprehensive guide to cybersecurity audits, grounded in both technical best practices and strategic alignment. It includes a breakdown of the IIA’s Three Lines Model, audit types tailored to different risk contexts, and practical steps for selecting and validating cybersecurity safeguards. This framework is designed for cross-functional use, making it a powerful tool for CISOs, IT teams, and executives alike.
This resource is ideal for:
Whether you’re preparing for compliance, measuring risk exposure, or improving internal controls, the CRF–AF helps turn audits into action.
The Audit Framework is a structured methodology designed to evaluate an organization's cybersecurity measures systematically. It guides the assessment of how well cybersecurity safeguards are implemented and functioning, ensuring that they effectively mitigate risks and comply with regulatory standards.
The Audit Framework is crucial because it provides a systematic approach to verifying the effectiveness of an organization's cybersecurity defenses. It helps identify vulnerabilities, ensures compliance with laws and regulations, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement in cybersecurity practices.
Audits should be conducted regularly, with the frequency determined by the organization's specific risk profile, regulatory requirements, and any changes in its operational environment. Typically, an annual audit cycle is recommended, with provisions for more frequent assessments as needed.
Responsibility for implementing the Audit Framework lies with the organization's senior management and cybersecurity team, often led by the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). However, successful implementation also requires engagement and cooperation across all levels of the organization.
Yes, the Audit Framework is designed to be flexible and adaptable. It requires regular updates to the audit plan and methodologies to reflect new cybersecurity threats, technological advancements, and changes in regulatory requirements. This adaptability ensures that the organization's cybersecurity measures remain effective and compliant over time.
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