Question 1

What is a software compliance audit?

Les Jones · Accepted Answer

A software compliance audit checks whether your systems and processes follow required laws, standards, and internal policies. Think of it as a health check for how you handle data, security, and risk. ISO/IEC 27001 Information Security Management iso.org

Question 2

What is a software compliance audit, really?

Accepted Answer

A software compliance audit checks whether your software, systems, and processes follow the rules you are supposed to follow, like laws, standards, contracts, and internal policies.

It is not just paperwork. A good audit also asks, "Do your controls actually work when things get messy".

Reference
Cybersecurity Framework | NIST nist.gov

Question 3

What is the difference between compliance and security?

Accepted Answer

Security is the practice of protecting systems and data. Compliance is proving, with evidence, that you meet a specific set of requirements.

You can be compliant and still insecure, and you can be secure but unable to prove it. Audits push you toward both.

Reference
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0 | NIST nist.gov

Question 4

Which compliance frameworks show up most often in software audits?

Accepted Answer

Common ones include HIPAA, PCI-DSS, ISO/IEC 27001, SOC 2, NIST guidance like SP 800-53, CIS Controls, HITRUST, and FISMA.

The list depends on your customers, your industry, and the kinds of data you handle.

Reference
NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-53 Rev. 5, Security and Privacy ... csrc.nist.gov

Question 5

What is HIPAA, and when does it matter for a software audit?

Accepted Answer

HIPAA is a U.S. law that sets rules for protecting health information. If your software stores, processes, or transmits electronic protected health information, HIPAA safeguards and documentation can be part of your audit.

Auditors often look for access control, audit logs, training, incident response, and vendor agreements.

Reference
HIPAA for Professionals - HHS.gov hhs.gov

Question 6

What is PCI-DSS, and what do auditors usually focus on?

Accepted Answer

PCI-DSS is a security standard for protecting payment card data. Auditors usually focus on where card data flows, how it is protected, and whether access is locked down and monitored.

A helpful mindset is, "Can we prove card data is either well protected, or not here at all".

Reference
Official PCI Security Standards Council Site pcisecuritystandards.org

Question 7

What does ISO/IEC 27001 certify, and what does it not certify?

Accepted Answer

ISO/IEC 27001 certifies that you run an information security management system that meets the standard.

It does not certify that you are breach-proof, and it does not magically fix bad habits. It does, however, force you to manage risk in a consistent way.

Reference
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 - Information security management systems iso.org

Question 8

What is SOC 2, and why do customers ask for it?

Accepted Answer

SOC 2 is an attestation report about controls related to the Trust Services Criteria, like security and availability.

Customers ask for it because it is a common way to compare service providers without doing a full custom audit every time.

Reference
System and Organization Controls: SOC Suite of Services aicpa-cima.com

Question 9

What is NIST SP 800-53, and why do auditors love it?

Accepted Answer

NIST SP 800-53 is a catalog of security and privacy controls. Auditors love it because it is detailed, it is widely mapped to other frameworks, and it is designed for real-world systems.

Even if you are not a federal agency, many organizations use 800-53 as a strong reference point.

Reference
NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-53 Rev. 5, Security and Privacy ... csrc.nist.gov

Question 10

What are the CIS Controls, and how do they help with audit prep?

Accepted Answer

The CIS Controls are a prioritized set of security best practices. They help with audit prep because they are practical, they map to many frameworks, and they give you a clear starting point.

If you are stuck, starting with a few high-value controls is better than starting with a 200-page policy nobody reads.

Reference
CIS Critical Security Controls Version 8 cisecurity.org

Question 11

What is HITRUST, and how is it different from HIPAA?

Accepted Answer

HIPAA is the law. HITRUST is a certifiable framework that pulls requirements from many sources, including HIPAA, NIST, and ISO, and turns them into a single control set you can be assessed against.

In healthcare, HITRUST is often used to show maturity beyond minimum HIPAA requirements.

Reference
HITRUST Framework for Cybersecurity and Compliance Success hitrustalliance.net

Question 12

What is FISMA, and who has to care about it?

Accepted Answer

FISMA sets cybersecurity requirements for U.S. federal information systems, and it also affects contractors and partners that handle federal data or systems.

If you build software for the government, you will run into FISMA language sooner or later.

Reference
Federal Information Security Modernization Act | CISA cisa.gov

Question 13

What is the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The NIST RMF is a structured process for managing security and privacy risk, including selecting controls, assessing them, authorizing systems, and monitoring them over time.

Auditors like it because it turns security into a repeatable process instead of a vibe.

Reference
NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-37 Rev. 2, Risk Management Framework ... csrc.nist.gov

Question 14

What is NIST SP 800-171, and when does it come up in audits?

Accepted Answer

NIST SP 800-171 provides security requirements for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in nonfederal systems.

It often comes up when you are working with U.S. federal agencies, prime contractors, or anyone who needs you to protect federal data in your environment.

Reference
SP 800-171 Rev. 3, Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in ... csrc.nist.gov

Question 15

What do auditors usually ask for as evidence?

Accepted Answer

Auditors usually want written policies, screenshots or exports of system settings, tickets or change records, logs, and proof that controls are followed in real life.

A simple rule is, if you cannot show it, it is hard to claim it.

Policies and procedures
Access reviews and approvals
System configuration evidence
Monitoring, alerting, and incident records

Reference
NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-53 Rev. 5, Security and Privacy ... csrc.nist.gov

Question 16

What is a control, in audit speak?

Accepted Answer

A control is a safeguard that reduces risk, like MFA, backups, code review, or logging.

Auditors want to see that controls are designed well, implemented, and used consistently, not just promised in a policy.

Reference
NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-53 Rev. 5, Security and Privacy ... csrc.nist.gov

Question 17

What is a gap, a finding, and a remediation plan?

Accepted Answer

A gap is something missing or weak. A finding is what the auditor documents about that gap.

A remediation plan is your plan to fix it, with owners, dates, and proof when it is done. It is basically a to-do list that has consequences if you ignore it.

Reference
NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-37 Rev. 2, Risk Management Framework ... csrc.nist.gov

Question 18

How often do we need to do audits?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the framework and your risk. Many organizations do annual audits, and they also do lighter check-ins throughout the year so nothing goes stale.

If you only look once a year, you can miss a lot of slow leaks.

Reference
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 - Information security management systems iso.org

Question 19

How can we avoid turning the audit into a last-minute fire drill?

Accepted Answer

Treat compliance like a steady habit. Keep evidence organized, run access reviews on schedule, track changes, and do mini-checks during the year instead of cramming the week before.

If you only think about compliance at audit time, you are basically choosing stress as a lifestyle.

Reference
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0 | NIST nist.gov

Question 20

How do secure development practices show up in audits?

Accepted Answer

Auditors often look for secure design, code review, vulnerability management, and a sensible SDLC.

If you can show that security is part of building software, and not just an afterthought, that goes a long way.

Reference
Secure by Design - CISA cisa.gov

Question 21

What is scope, and why does it matter so much?

Accepted Answer

Scope defines what systems, teams, and data are included in the audit.

Clear scope prevents surprises, reduces wasted work, and helps you focus evidence collection where it counts.

Reference
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 - Information security management systems iso.org

Question 22

Can one set of controls support multiple frameworks like ISO/IEC 27001, SOC 2, and NIST?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many controls overlap across ISO/IEC 27001, SOC 2, NIST, and CIS.

If you map requirements and reuse evidence, you can reduce duplicated work and keep your sanity.

Reference
HITRUST Framework for Cybersecurity and Compliance Success hitrustalliance.net

Question 23

What is the biggest mistake teams make during compliance audits?

Accepted Answer

The biggest mistake is treating the audit as a one-time event.

Audits go smoother when controls are part of daily work, and evidence is collected as you go.

Reference
CIS Critical Security Controls Version 8 cisecurity.org

Question 24

What is a software code audit?

Accepted Answer

A software code audit is a structured review of your application's source code by developers who didn't write it. Think of it as a building inspection - except instead of checking load-bearing walls, we're checking the logic, security, and architecture holding your software together.

A good audit surfaces security flaws, performance problems, costly maintenance patterns, and compliance gaps before they become serious. You don't walk away with a vague report card. You get a clear picture of what needs attention and a practical plan to address it.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 25

What is the difference between a code audit and a code review?

Accepted Answer

A code review typically happens during development - a developer checks a colleague's pull request before it gets merged. It's fast, focused, and part of the normal build process.

A code audit is a broader, more formal assessment of an entire codebase - or a significant portion of it. It looks at security, architecture, compliance, technical debt, and long-term maintainability, not just whether the latest change looks right. If a code review is a proofreading pass, an audit is a full editorial review of the whole manuscript.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 26

Why do enterprises need software code audits?

Accepted Answer

Enterprise software carries real risk - a vulnerability in a customer-facing application, a compliance gap in a financial system, or years of accumulated technical debt can all have serious consequences. Enterprises often have large, aging codebases written by teams that have since turned over, which makes them especially prone to hidden problems.

A code audit gives leadership visibility into what's actually in the software, not just what the team thinks is there. It turns unknowns into a prioritized list of things to fix, which is exactly the kind of actionable intelligence that decision makers need.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 27

What compliance frameworks does a software code audit address?

Accepted Answer

A software code audit can be scoped to address most major regulatory frameworks, including:

HIPAA: Covers technical safeguards for electronic protected health information (ePHI), including access controls, audit mechanisms, and transmission security.
PCI DSS: Requires secure software development, code analysis for vulnerabilities, and protection of cardholder data environments.
SOC 2: Addresses the security, availability, and confidentiality of systems that process customer data.
ISO 27001: Requires organizations to manage security risks across information systems, including software.
GDPR: Requires that software handling EU personal data be built with privacy and security controls.

Reference
Summary of the HIPAA Security Rule - HHS.gov - hhs.gov

Question 28

How does a software code audit support HIPAA compliance?

Accepted Answer

HIPAA's Security Rule requires covered entities and business associates to implement technical safeguards that protect electronic protected health information (ePHI). These include access controls, audit controls, data integrity measures, and transmission security - all of which live in the code.

A software code audit reviews your application against these requirements, identifies where the implementation falls short, and provides specific guidance for closing the gaps. It also helps you document your security posture, which HIPAA requires and which the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) may request in the event of a breach or compliance review. HHS proposed the most significant updates to the HIPAA Security Rule since 2013 in December 2024, making proactive code reviews more important than ever.

Reference
Summary of the HIPAA Security Rule - HHS.gov - hhs.gov

Question 29

How does a software code audit support PCI DSS compliance?

Accepted Answer

PCI DSS v4.0.1 (the current active version as of 2025) includes Requirement 6, which specifically addresses secure software development and vulnerability management. It requires organizations to analyze code for security vulnerabilities and remediate them before releasing software to production.

A code audit directly supports these requirements by identifying injection flaws, insecure authentication patterns, hardcoded credentials, and other vulnerabilities that could expose cardholder data. It also helps you maintain the software inventory that PCI DSS 4.0 now requires. Non-compliance penalties can range from $5,000 to $100,000 per month, depending on transaction volume and duration of non-compliance.

Reference
PCI DSS Document Library - PCI Security Standards Council - pcisecuritystandards.org

Question 30

How does a software code audit support SOC 2 compliance?

Accepted Answer

SOC 2 audits assess whether your systems meet the Trust Services Criteria for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Auditors look for evidence that you've implemented the controls you claim to have - and that those controls actually work.

A software code audit prepares you for SOC 2 by reviewing the code-level implementation of your security controls. It identifies gaps between what your policies say and what your software actually does. Going into a SOC 2 audit without knowing what's in your code is a bit like studying for one test and showing up to a different one.

Reference
System and Organization Controls (SOC) - AICPA - aicpa.org

Question 31

How does a software code audit support ISO 27001 compliance?

Accepted Answer

ISO 27001 requires organizations to identify and manage information security risks, including those that originate in software. Annex A of the standard includes controls related to secure development, supplier relationships, and protection of information assets - all of which a code audit can assess.

A code audit provides documented evidence that you've assessed your software's security posture, which supports the risk assessment and treatment process that ISO 27001 certification requires. It's the kind of evidence that certification bodies and internal auditors want to see.

Reference
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 - Information Security Management - iso.org

Question 32

What is technical debt, and how does a code audit help?

Accepted Answer

Technical debt is the accumulated cost of shortcuts, outdated dependencies, and deferred maintenance in a codebase. It builds up quietly - a library that wasn't upgraded, a workaround that became permanent, a module nobody wants to touch because it's too fragile.

Like financial debt, technical debt carries interest. The longer it sits, the more expensive it becomes to fix - and the more it slows down every new feature or change your team tries to make.

A code audit maps your technical debt. It identifies what's there, prioritizes what's most risky or costly, and gives your team a concrete plan for paying it down. For many organizations, the audit is the first time leadership has ever seen a clear picture of what the debt actually looks like.

Reference
Technical Debt - Software Engineering Institute, Carnegie Mellon University - sei.cmu.edu

Question 33

When should a company get a software code audit?

Accepted Answer

There are several situations where a code audit is especially valuable:

Before an acquisition or investment round, so you can find and fix problems before a buyer's technical due diligence does.
Before scaling, since architecture flaws that are manageable at low traffic often fall apart under load.
Before a compliance audit or certification (SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, ISO 27001).
After inheriting a codebase through an acquisition, staff turnover, or vendor handoff.
Before a major product release or launch.
When your team shows signs of deeper problems - slow deployments, unexplained bugs, or reluctance to touch certain parts of the code.
When software has been running for years with no formal review.

You don't have to wait for something to go wrong. In fact, the audits that provide the most value happen before a crisis.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 34

What does an enterprise compliance audit cover?

Accepted Answer

An enterprise compliance audit examines whether your software and IT systems meet the requirements of the regulatory frameworks that apply to your organization. Depending on your industry, that might include HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, FedRAMP, or others.

On the software side, the audit looks at access controls, encryption and data handling, audit logging, vulnerability management, secure development practices, and third-party component risk. It maps what the software actually does against what each framework requires, identifies the gaps, and provides a remediation plan to close them.

A compliance code audit isn't just about passing a certification. It's about understanding whether your software actually protects the people and data it's responsible for.

Reference
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - NIST - nist.gov

Question 35

What is included in a software code audit report?

Accepted Answer

A thorough code audit report includes:

Executive summary: Plain-language findings written for decision makers, not developers.
Detailed findings by category: Security, performance, architecture, code quality, compliance, and third-party risk, each documented with specific locations in the code.
Risk severity ratings: Findings classified as critical, high, medium, or low.
Prioritized remediation roadmap: A sequenced plan so your team knows what to fix first.
Actionable developer guidance: Specific recommendations, not vague suggestions.
Compliance gap analysis (where applicable): A mapped view of where your code aligns or conflicts with applicable regulations.

A good report is useful - to the board, to the engineering team, and to the auditors or investors who may ask to see it.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 36

How long does a software code audit take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the size and complexity of the codebase. A focused audit of a single application or module might take one to two weeks. A comprehensive audit of a large enterprise system with multiple components, integrations, and compliance requirements could take four to six weeks or more.

The scope you define at the start - which systems, which regulatory frameworks, how deep to go - is the biggest factor in timeline. We work with you to scope the audit to fit your timeline and business priorities, so you get the most value from the time and budget available.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 37

What security vulnerabilities does a code audit look for?

Accepted Answer

A security-focused code audit looks for vulnerabilities that real attackers exploit, including:

Injection flaws (SQL, command, LDAP injection)
Broken or missing authentication and session management
Insecure direct object references and missing access controls
Hardcoded credentials and API keys
Insecure cryptography or weak encryption implementations
Sensitive data exposure (logging of PII, lack of encryption at rest or in transit)
Vulnerable or outdated third-party dependencies with known CVEs
Security misconfiguration in application settings
Cross-site scripting (XSS) and cross-site request forgery (CSRF)
Insecure deserialization

Many of these map directly to the OWASP Top 10 - the industry-standard list of the most critical web application security risks.

Reference
OWASP Top Ten - OWASP Foundation - owasp.org

Question 38

Can a code audit help prepare for an M&A transaction?

Accepted Answer

Yes - and it's one of the most valuable times to do one. In mergers and acquisitions, technical due diligence is standard. Buyers and their advisors will look at the software being acquired, and undisclosed security vulnerabilities, compliance gaps, or significant technical debt can reduce the valuation, delay closing, or kill a deal entirely.

Getting a code audit done on your own timeline - before a buyer's team does it - lets you find and fix problems first. It also gives you documentation you can provide to buyers proactively, which builds confidence and speeds up the diligence process. We've seen deals go more smoothly when sellers come prepared.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 39

What is the difference between a security audit and a compliance audit?

Accepted Answer

A security audit focuses on whether your software has vulnerabilities that could be exploited - injection flaws, insecure dependencies, authentication weaknesses, and similar technical risks. The question it answers is: how easy would it be for someone to break this?

A compliance audit focuses on whether your software meets specific regulatory requirements - HIPAA, PCI DSS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, or others. The question it answers is: does this software satisfy the rules we're required to follow?

In practice, they overlap significantly. Most compliance frameworks require strong security controls, and a well-secured application is usually easier to make compliant. We often conduct both in a single engagement, since the codebase is already open and the incremental effort is modest.

Reference
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - NIST - nist.gov

Question 40

How do third-party libraries and open-source components affect compliance?

Accepted Answer

Most modern applications use open-source libraries and third-party components - and that's where a significant portion of compliance risk comes from. According to Veracode's 2024 State of Software Security report, 70% of applications contain security flaws that were imported through third-party code.

For compliance purposes, you're responsible for the security of every component your application uses, whether you wrote it or not. PCI DSS, HIPAA, and ISO 27001 all require you to manage the risk posed by third-party software.

A code audit reviews your dependency inventory, checks components against known vulnerability databases (CVEs), flags outdated or abandoned libraries, and identifies licensing risks that could create legal exposure.

Reference
Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) - CISA - cisa.gov

Question 41

What regulatory frameworks apply to healthcare software?

Accepted Answer

Healthcare software is subject to some of the most demanding regulatory requirements in any industry. The main frameworks include:

HIPAA Security Rule: Requires technical safeguards to protect electronic protected health information (ePHI). HHS proposed major updates to the rule in December 2024, with expected finalization in 2026.
HITECH Act: Extends HIPAA requirements and strengthens enforcement, particularly around breach notification.
FDA regulations: Software that qualifies as a medical device (Software as a Medical Device, or SaMD) is subject to FDA oversight under 21 CFR Part 11 and related guidance.
SOC 2: Common for healthcare SaaS companies that handle patient or clinical data for other covered entities.
State-level requirements: Several states have enacted their own health data privacy laws that may apply in addition to federal requirements.

A code audit tailored to healthcare maps your software against the specific controls each framework requires.

Reference
Summary of the HIPAA Security Rule - HHS.gov - hhs.gov

Question 42

What regulatory frameworks apply to financial services software?

Accepted Answer

Financial services software faces a dense regulatory environment. Relevant frameworks typically include:

PCI DSS: Required for any system that stores, processes, or transmits payment card data. PCI DSS v4.0.1 is the current active standard as of 2025.
SOC 2: Required by most enterprise customers and financial institutions as a baseline for third-party vendors.
SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley): Requires public companies to maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting, which extends to the software that supports those processes.
GLBA (Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act): Requires financial institutions to protect customer financial information.
NIST standards: Widely referenced as best practices across financial services.

A code audit maps your software against the specific controls each applicable framework requires and identifies the gaps that pose the most risk.

Reference
PCI DSS Document Library - PCI Security Standards Council - pcisecuritystandards.org

Question 43

How does Atiba conduct a software code audit?

Accepted Answer

Our process has five phases:

Scope and goals: We start by understanding your business context, regulatory obligations, and what you're most concerned about. This shapes the entire engagement.
Automated scanning: We run static analysis tools, dependency audits, and CVE scans to build a baseline picture of the codebase.
Expert manual review: Our senior developers review the code with the context of your business and industry in mind. Automated tools catch known patterns - human reviewers catch judgment calls.
Risk assessment: We classify findings by severity and business impact, so you know what to prioritize.
Audit report and walkthrough: We deliver a detailed report with findings, a prioritized remediation roadmap, and a walkthrough with your team so nothing gets lost in translation.

If you need help fixing what we find, we can support remediation as well. You don't need to bring in a new team to explain the problems.

Reference
Software Code Audits - Atiba - atiba.com

Question 44

What is a software code audit?

Accepted Answer

A software code audit is a structured review of your application's source code by developers who didn't write it. Think of it as a building inspection - except instead of checking load-bearing walls, we're checking the logic, security, and architecture that holds your software together.

A good audit surfaces security flaws, performance problems, costly maintenance patterns, and compliance gaps before they become serious. You don't walk away with a vague report card. You get a clear picture of what needs attention and a practical plan to address it.

Reference
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - NIST - nist.gov

Question 45

What is the difference between a code audit and a code review?

Accepted Answer

A code review happens during development - a developer checks a colleague's pull request before it gets merged. It's fast, narrow, and part of the normal build process.

A code audit is a broader, more formal assessment of an entire codebase - or a significant portion of it. It examines security, architecture, compliance, technical debt, and long-term maintainability. If a code review is a proofreading pass, an audit is a full editorial review of the whole manuscript.

Reference
OWASP Code Review Guide - OWASP Foundation - owasp.org

Question 46

Why do enterprises need software code audits?

Accepted Answer

Enterprise software carries real risk. A vulnerability in a customer-facing application, a compliance gap in a financial system, or years of accumulated technical debt can all have serious consequences. Enterprises often run large, aging codebases written by teams that have since turned over, which makes them especially prone to hidden problems.

A code audit gives leadership a clear view of what's actually in the software, not just what the team assumes is there. It turns unknowns into a prioritized list of things to fix - which is exactly the kind of actionable intelligence that decision makers need.

Reference
Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) - CISA - cisa.gov

Question 47

What compliance frameworks does a software code audit address?

Accepted Answer

A software code audit can be scoped to address most major regulatory frameworks, including:

HIPAA: Covers technical safeguards for electronic protected health information (ePHI), including access controls, audit mechanisms, and transmission security.
PCI DSS: Requires secure software development, code analysis for vulnerabilities, and protection of cardholder data environments.
SOC 2: Addresses the security, availability, and confidentiality of systems that process customer data.
ISO 27001: Requires organizations to manage security risks across information systems, including software.
GDPR: Requires that software handling EU personal data include privacy and security controls by design.

We scope each audit to what matters for your industry and your specific regulatory obligations.

Reference
Summary of the HIPAA Security Rule - HHS.gov - hhs.gov

Question 48

How does a software code audit support HIPAA compliance?

Accepted Answer

HIPAA's Security Rule requires covered entities and business associates to implement technical safeguards that protect electronic protected health information (ePHI). These include access controls, audit controls, data integrity measures, and transmission security - all of which live in the code.

A software code audit reviews your application against these requirements, identifies where the implementation falls short, and provides specific guidance for closing the gaps. It also generates documentation that the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) may request during a compliance review or breach investigation. HHS proposed the most significant Security Rule updates since 2013 in December 2024, making proactive code reviews more important than ever.

Reference
Summary of the HIPAA Security Rule - HHS.gov - hhs.gov

Question 49

How does a software code audit support PCI DSS compliance?

Accepted Answer

PCI DSS v4.0.1 - the current active version as of 2025 - includes Requirement 6, which directly addresses secure software development and vulnerability management. It requires organizations to analyze code for security vulnerabilities and remediate them before releasing software to production.

A code audit supports these requirements by identifying injection flaws, insecure authentication patterns, hardcoded credentials, and other vulnerabilities that could expose cardholder data. It also helps you maintain the software inventory that PCI DSS 4.0 now requires. Non-compliance penalties can range from $5,000 to $100,000 per month, depending on transaction volume and how long the gap goes unaddressed.

Reference
PCI DSS Document Library - PCI Security Standards Council - pcisecuritystandards.org

Question 50

How does a software code audit support SOC 2 compliance?

Accepted Answer

SOC 2 audits assess whether your systems meet the Trust Services Criteria for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Auditors look for evidence that you've implemented the controls you say you have - and that those controls actually work.

A software code audit prepares you for SOC 2 by reviewing the code-level implementation of your security controls and identifying gaps between what your policies say and what your software actually does. Going into a SOC 2 audit without knowing what's in your code is a bit like studying for one exam and showing up to a different one.

Reference
SOC Suite of Services - AICPA-CIMA - aicpa-cima.com

Question 51

How does a software code audit support ISO 27001 compliance?

Accepted Answer

ISO 27001 requires organizations to identify and manage information security risks, including those that originate in software. Annex A of the standard includes controls related to secure development, supplier relationships, and protection of information assets - all areas a code audit can assess.

A code audit gives you documented evidence that you've evaluated your software's security posture. That's exactly what certification bodies and internal auditors want to see when reviewing your risk assessment and treatment processes.

Reference
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 - Information Security Management - iso.org

Question 52

What is technical debt, and how does a code audit help?

Accepted Answer

Technical debt is the accumulated cost of shortcuts, outdated dependencies, and deferred maintenance in a codebase. It builds up quietly - a library that wasn't upgraded, a workaround that became permanent, a module nobody wants to touch because it breaks too easily.

Like financial debt, technical debt carries interest. The longer it sits, the more expensive it becomes to fix - and the more it slows down every new feature or change your team tries to make.

A code audit maps your technical debt. It identifies what's there, prioritizes what's most risky, and gives your team a concrete plan for paying it down. For many organizations, the audit report is the first time leadership has ever seen a real picture of what the debt actually looks like.

Reference
Technical Debt - Software Engineering Institute, Carnegie Mellon University - sei.cmu.edu

Question 53

When should a company get a software code audit?

Accepted Answer

A code audit is most valuable before problems surface, not after. The clearest triggers include:

Before an acquisition or investment round: so you find and fix problems before a buyer's technical due diligence does.
Before scaling: since architecture flaws that are manageable at low traffic often collapse under load.
Before a compliance certification: (SOC 2, HIPAA, PCI DSS, ISO 27001).
After inheriting a codebase: through an acquisition, staff turnover, or vendor handoff.
Before a major product launch or release.
When symptoms appear: slow deployments, unexplained bugs, or developer reluctance to touch certain modules.
When software has been in production for years with no formal review.

The audits that provide the most value consistently happen before a crisis, not during one.

Reference
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - NIST - nist.gov

Question 54

What does an enterprise compliance audit cover?

Accepted Answer

An enterprise compliance audit examines whether your software and IT systems meet the requirements of the regulatory frameworks that apply to your organization. Depending on your industry, that might include HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, FedRAMP, or others.

On the software side, the audit covers access controls, encryption and data handling, audit logging, vulnerability management, secure development practices, and third-party component risk. It maps what the software actually does against what each framework requires, identifies the gaps, and provides a remediation plan to close them.

A compliance audit isn't just about passing a certification. It's about confirming that your software actually protects the people and data it's responsible for.

Reference
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - NIST - nist.gov

Question 55

What is included in a software code audit report?

Accepted Answer

A thorough code audit report includes:

Executive summary: Plain-language findings for decision makers, not just developers.
Detailed findings by category: Security, performance, architecture, code quality, compliance, and third-party risk - each with specific code locations and explanations.
Risk severity ratings: Findings classified as critical, high, medium, or low so your team knows what to address first.
Prioritized remediation roadmap: A sequenced action plan, not a wishlist.
Actionable developer guidance: Specific recommendations your team can act on, not vague suggestions.
Compliance gap analysis (where applicable): A mapped view of where your code aligns or conflicts with applicable regulations.

A good report is useful at every level - to the board, to the engineering team, and to the auditors or investors who may ask to review it.

Reference
OWASP Code Review Guide - OWASP Foundation - owasp.org

Question 56

How long does a software code audit take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline depends on the size and complexity of the codebase. A focused audit of a single application or module might take one to two weeks. A comprehensive audit of a large enterprise system with multiple components, integrations, and compliance requirements could take four to six weeks or more.

The scope defined at the start - which systems, which regulatory frameworks, how deep to go - is the biggest factor in timeline. We work with you to scope the audit to fit your schedule and business priorities so you get the most value from the time and budget available.

Reference
OWASP Code Review Guide - OWASP Foundation - owasp.org

Question 57

What security vulnerabilities does a code audit look for?

Accepted Answer

A security-focused code audit looks for the vulnerabilities that real attackers exploit. These include:

Injection flaws: SQL, command, and LDAP injection.
Broken or missing authentication: Weak session management and credential handling.
Insecure access controls: Missing authorization checks and direct object reference flaws.
Hardcoded credentials: API keys and passwords embedded in source code.
Weak encryption: Incorrectly implemented or outdated cryptographic practices.
Sensitive data exposure: PII logged in plain text, unencrypted data at rest.
Vulnerable dependencies: Outdated third-party libraries with known CVEs.
Security misconfiguration: Unsafe application settings and defaults.
XSS and CSRF: Cross-site scripting and cross-site request forgery vulnerabilities.
Insecure deserialization: Flaws that allow remote code execution or data tampering.

Many of these map directly to the OWASP Top 10, the industry-standard list of the most critical web application security risks.

Reference
OWASP Top Ten - OWASP Foundation - owasp.org

Question 58

Can a code audit help prepare for an M&A transaction?

Accepted Answer

Yes - and it's one of the most valuable times to conduct one. In mergers and acquisitions, technical due diligence is standard. Buyers and their advisors examine the software being acquired, and undisclosed security vulnerabilities, compliance gaps, or significant technical debt can reduce the valuation, delay closing, or kill the deal entirely.

Getting a code audit done on your own timeline - before a buyer's team does it - lets you find and fix problems first. It also gives you documentation you can share proactively, which builds buyer confidence and speeds up the diligence process. Sellers who come prepared tend to have a smoother experience.

Reference
Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) - CISA - cisa.gov

Question 59

What is the difference between a security audit and a compliance audit?

Accepted Answer

A security audit focuses on whether your software has vulnerabilities that could be exploited - injection flaws, insecure dependencies, authentication weaknesses, and similar risks. The core question is: how easy would it be for someone to break this?

A compliance audit focuses on whether your software meets specific regulatory requirements - HIPAA, PCI DSS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, or others. The core question is: does this software satisfy the rules our organization is required to follow?

In practice, the two overlap significantly. Most compliance frameworks require strong security controls, so a well-secured application is generally easier to make compliant. We often conduct both in a single engagement, since the codebase is already under review and the incremental effort is modest.

Reference
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - NIST - nist.gov

Question 60

How do third-party libraries and open-source components affect compliance?

Accepted Answer

Most modern applications depend heavily on open-source libraries and third-party components - and that's where a meaningful share of compliance risk lives. According to Veracode's 2024 State of Software Security report, 70% of applications contain security flaws imported through third-party code.

For compliance purposes, you're responsible for the security of every component your application uses, whether you wrote it or not. PCI DSS, HIPAA, and ISO 27001 all require you to manage the risk posed by third-party software.

A code audit reviews your dependency inventory, checks components against known vulnerability databases (CVEs), flags outdated or abandoned libraries, and identifies licensing risks that could create legal exposure.

Reference
Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) - CISA - cisa.gov

Question 61

What regulatory frameworks apply to healthcare software?

Accepted Answer

Healthcare software operates under some of the most demanding regulatory requirements in any industry. Key frameworks include:

HIPAA Security Rule: Requires technical safeguards to protect ePHI. HHS proposed significant rule updates in December 2024, with finalization expected in 2026.
HITECH Act: Extends HIPAA requirements and strengthens breach notification and enforcement.
FDA / SaMD guidance: Software that qualifies as a medical device is subject to FDA oversight under 21 CFR Part 11 and related guidance.
SOC 2: Commonly required of healthcare SaaS companies that process patient or clinical data on behalf of covered entities.
State-level requirements: California, Washington, and other states have enacted health data privacy laws that may apply alongside federal requirements.

A code audit tailored to healthcare maps your software against the specific controls each applicable framework requires.

Reference
Summary of the HIPAA Security Rule - HHS.gov - hhs.gov

Question 62

What regulatory frameworks apply to financial services software?

Accepted Answer

Financial services software faces a dense and overlapping regulatory landscape. The most relevant frameworks include:

PCI DSS: Required for any system that stores, processes, or transmits payment card data. PCI DSS v4.0.1 is the active standard as of 2025.
SOC 2: Commonly required by enterprise customers and financial institutions as a baseline condition for third-party vendors.
SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act): Requires public companies to maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting, which extends to the software supporting those processes.
GLBA (Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act): Requires financial institutions to protect customer financial data through technical and administrative safeguards.
NIST standards: Widely referenced as best-practice guidance across the financial sector.

A code audit scoped for financial services maps your software against the specific controls each applicable framework requires.

Reference
PCI DSS Document Library - PCI Security Standards Council - pcisecuritystandards.org

Question 63

How does Atiba conduct a software code audit?

Accepted Answer

Our process runs in five phases:

Scope and goals: We start by understanding your business context, regulatory obligations, and biggest concerns. This shapes the entire engagement.
Automated scanning: We run static analysis tools, dependency audits, and CVE scans to establish a baseline picture of the codebase.
Expert manual review: Our senior developers examine the code with your business and industry in mind. Automated tools catch known patterns - experienced reviewers catch the judgment calls.
Risk assessment: We classify findings by severity and business impact so you know exactly what to address first.
Audit report and walkthrough: We deliver a detailed report with findings, a prioritized remediation roadmap, and a walkthrough with your team so nothing gets lost in translation.

If you need help fixing what we find, we can support remediation as well - no need to brief a new team on problems we already understand.

Reference
OWASP Code Review Guide - OWASP Foundation - owasp.org

Question 64

What are AI services?

Accepted Answer

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