Which of the following actions should the internal audit activity take during an audit engagement...

Risk Management Evaluation: During an audit engagement examining the effectiveness of risk management processes, the internal audit activity should focus on evaluating how the organization manages various types of risks, including fraud risk.

Fraud Risk Management: This involves assessing the organization’s mechanisms for identifying, assessing, and responding to fraud risks. It also includes reviewing the effectiveness of controls in place to prevent and detect fraudulent activities.

IIA Standards: Standard 2120 – Risk Management emphasizes that internal auditors must evaluate the potential for the occurrence of fraud and how the organization manages fraud risk.

Comprehensive Approach:

Risk Assessment: Ensuring that the organization conducts thorough risk assessments to identify potential fraud risks.

Control Environment: Evaluating the control environment to ensure it supports ethical behavior and reduces opportunities for fraud.

Fraud Prevention and Detection: Reviewing the policies and procedures in place to prevent and detect fraud, including whistleblower mechanisms and fraud response plans.

References:

Internal auditors play a crucial role in assessing the adequacy of fraud risk management, which is integral to the overall risk management process. By evaluating fraud risk management, auditors can provide assurance that the organization is effectively mitigating fraud risks​​​​.