Finance teams are attractive targets because they control payments, payroll, banking and sensitive records. Basic cyber controls should therefore be part of everyday financial governance.
Protect payment workflows
Business email compromise often relies on urgency or impersonation. Independently verify changes to supplier banking details and significant unusual payment instructions using trusted contact information.
Separate payment preparation and approval where practical and review unusual transactions promptly.
Harden user access
Use unique accounts, strong authentication and least-privilege access. Remove access quickly after departures or role changes and review administrator privileges periodically.
Keep devices and software updated under a controlled patching process.
Plan for incidents
Document who should be contacted, how systems can be isolated, where backups are held and how critical finance processes will continue. Preserve evidence and involve appropriate technical, legal and regulatory advisers when an incident occurs.
How AS Chartered Accountants can help
Good financial governance is easier when accounting, tax, assurance and advisory work from the same reliable information. AS Chartered Accountants provides partner-led support designed around the realities of operating in Zimbabwe. See IT Audit & Cyber Security and our risk and controls advisory.
Contact AS Chartered Accountants to discuss your organisation’s requirements and the scope of support that may be appropriate.
