Cyber Security Auditor Interview Questions UK: 8 Real Questions and What Interviewers Want

Applying for a Cyber Security Auditor job in the UK? Here is what you are likely to be asked. These questions come from our Cyber Security Auditor question bank of 12 questions, written for UK employers at mid-level level.

Eight Cyber Security Auditor interview questions, and what the interviewer is thinking

1. How do you plan and carry out an internal audit against ISO/IEC 27001:2022?

Why they ask: To check you can run a structured, standards-based audit rather than just tick through a checklist.

2. What is the purpose of the Statement of Applicability, and how would you audit it?

Why they ask: To test your understanding of how risk treatment links to Annex A controls in ISO 27001.

3. How do you decide whether an audit finding is a major non-conformity, a minor non-conformity or just an observation?

Why they ask: To see whether you grade findings consistently and defensibly.

4. How do you decide on sampling, and how much evidence is enough to support a conclusion?

Why they ask: To test your audit technique and your ability to justify conclusions.

5. ISO 27001:2022 introduced new controls such as threat intelligence and ICT readiness for business continuity. How would you audit one of them?

Why they ask: To check you know the 2022 changes and can translate a control into audit tests.

6. In an audit, a control owner hands you a well-written policy but cannot show that anyone follows it. What do you do?

Why they ask: To test whether you audit operation, not just documentation.

7. Tell me about a time you raised a significant non-conformity with a control owner who disagreed with you.

Why they ask: To see whether you can hold a position professionally under pressure.

8. What qualities make a good cyber security auditor, and how do you protect your independence?

Why they ask: To understand your view of the role and its professional standards.

A sample answer to question 1

How do you plan and carry out an internal audit against ISO/IEC 27001:2022?

I start from the audit programme and scope, then review the previous audit report, the risk assessment and the Statement of Applicability so I know where the risk sits. I write an audit plan with objectives, criteria, sites, interviewees and timings, and agree it with the ISMS manager beforehand. At the opening meeting I confirm scope and the rules of engagement. During fieldwork I audit both the management clauses, 4 to 10, and the Annex A controls, using interviews, observation and records rather than relying on documents alone. I trace a sample from policy through to evidence that it operates, and I take notes against the clause so every finding is traceable. At the closing meeting I present draft findings so nothing comes as a surprise, then issue a report grading non-conformities, observations and opportunities for improvement. Finally I agree corrective action owners and dates and verify closure. Throughout I stay objective and independent of the controls I am auditing.

Common mistake to avoid: Treating it as a document review only; springing findings on the auditee at the closing meeting

Want the rest?

Full model answers, key points and common mistakes for all 12 questions are on the Cyber Security Auditor interview questions page. The first five are free, no sign-up needed.