Session 1: Cybersecurity 101 for the Accounting Profession
Key Concepts Covered:
- Types of Cyber Threats:
- Phishing and spear-phishing attacks
- Ransomware and malware
- Business Email Compromise (BEC)
- Data breaches and insider threats
- Why It Matters to Accountants and Auditors:
- Protection of sensitive client and financial data
- Threats to financial integrity and audit reliability
- Reputational and regulatory risks
Namibian Regulatory Links:
- FIA Obligations: Secure handling of client information in line with anti-money laundering (AML) controls
- Cybercrime Bill: Offences relevant to professionals, such as unlawful interception, data interference, and liability of legal persons
- PAAB Guidance: Professional responsibility in maintaining information security standards
Real-Life Example:
Session 2: Artificial Intelligence in Auditing & Accounting
Key Concepts Covered:
- Automated invoice matching and reconciliation
- Predictive analytics for forecasting
- Fraud detection and anomaly spotting
- Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in audit procedures
- Key Risks and Challenges:
- AI bias in decision models
- Over-reliance on AI recommendations
- Lack of explainability in black-box systems
- Ethical concerns around transparency and accountability
Ethical Lens: IESBA Code
Case Studies:
Interactive Element: ??
Session 3: Ethics & Regulation Overview (Condensed)
- IESBA Code principles recap with AI/cyber lens
- Role of whistleblowing under the relevant regulations
- Overview of digital evidence obligations under the Cybercrime Bill
- Local PAAB standards related to ethical tech use in the profession
Session 4: Wrap up and Questions
