CPA Auditing and Attestation (AUD)

Certified Public Accountant Auditing and Attestation examination.

Audit Fundamentals & PrinciplesEthics and Professional ResponsibilitiesAudit Evidence & Documentation
Internal Controls & Risk AssessmentAudit Sampling & Analytical ProceduresAudit Reports & Opinions
Auditing Revenue CyclesTesting Inventory & Physical CountsAuditing Information Systems
Time Management for the AUD ExamMastering Multiple Choice & SimulationsActive Learning Techniques
Audit Fundamentals &...Ethics and Professio...Audit Evidence & Doc...Internal Controls & ...Audit Sampling & Ana...Audit Reports & Opin...Auditing Revenue Cyc...Testing Inventory & ...Auditing Information...Time Management for ...Mastering Multiple C...Active Learning Tech...
Basic Concepts

Ethics and Professional Responsibilities

The Role of Ethics

Ethics are at the heart of the auditing profession. CPAs must follow the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, which guides behavior in all situations.

Key Principles

  • Integrity: Always act honestly.
  • Objectivity: Stay impartial and avoid conflicts of interest.
  • Confidentiality: Do not disclose client information without consent.
  • Professional Behavior: Comply with laws and avoid discrediting the profession.

Real-World Challenges

Auditors often face dilemmas, like pressure from clients or discovering fraud. Knowing how to respond ethically is crucial.

Decision-Making Model

  1. Recognize the ethical issue
  2. Consider the facts and stakeholders
  3. Review applicable rules
  4. Decide and act
  5. Reflect on the outcome

Why It Matters

Strong ethics protect the public, build trust, and prevent scandals.

Examples

  • A CPA refuses to ignore a suspicious transaction, even under client pressure.

  • An auditor maintains confidentiality despite media requests.

In a Nutshell

Ethics guide auditors to act with integrity and objectivity.

Key Terms

AICPA
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, which sets professional standards for CPAs.
Confidentiality
Protecting client information from unauthorized disclosure.
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Audit Evidence & Documentation
Ethics and Professional Responsibilities - CPA Auditing and Attestation (AUD) Content | Practice Hub