IIA Code of Ethics
IIA Code of Ethics
Principles that are relevant to the profession and practice of internal auditing.
Rules of Conduct that describe behaviour norms expected of internal auditors. These rules are an aid to
interpreting the Principles into practical applications and are intended to guide the ethical conduct of
internal auditors.
Internal auditors refers to Institute members, recipients of or candidates for IIA professional certifications,
and those who perform internal audit services within the Definition of Internal Auditing.
Applicability and Enforcement of the Code of Ethics
This Code of Ethics applies to both entities and individuals that perform internal audit services.
For IIA members and recipients of or candidates for IIA professional certifications, breaches of the Code of
Ethics will be evaluated and administered according to The Institute's Bylaws and Administrative Directives.
The fact that a particular conduct is not mentioned in the Rules of Conduct does not prevent it from being
unacceptable or discreditable, and therefore, the member, certification holder, or candidate can be liable for
disciplinary action.
Code of Ethics:
PRINCIPLES
Internal auditors are expected to apply and uphold the following principles:
1.
Integrity
The integrity of internal auditors establishes trust and thus provides the basis for reliance on their
judgment.
2.
Objectivity
Internal auditors exhibit the highest level of professional objectivity in gathering, evaluating, and
communicating information about the activity or process being examined. Internal auditors make a
balanced assessment of all the relevant circumstances and are not unduly influenced by their own
interests or by others in forming judgments.
3.
Confidentiality
Internal auditors respect the value and ownership of information they receive and do not disclose
information without appropriate authority unless there is a legal or professional obligation to do so.
4.
Competency
Internal auditors apply the knowledge, skills, and experience needed in the performance of internal
audit services.
Code of Ethics
Revised:
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RULES OF CONDUCT
1. Integrity
Internal Auditors:
1.1. Shall perform their work with honesty, diligence, and responsibility.
1.2. Shall observe the law and make disclosures expected by the law and the profession.
1.3. Shall not knowingly be a party to any illegal activity, or engage in acts that are discreditable to
the profession of internal auditing or to the organization.
1.4. Shall respect and contribute to the legitimate and ethical objectives of the organization.
2. Objectivity
Internal Auditors:
2.1. Shall not participate in any activity or relationship that may impair or be presumed to impair
their unbiased assessment. This participation includes those activities or relationships that may
be in conflict with the interests of the organization.
2.2. Shall not accept anything that may impair or be presumed to impair their professional
judgment.
2.3. Shall disclose all material facts known to them that, if not disclosed, may distort the reporting
of activities under review.
3. Confidentiality
Internal Auditors:
3.1. Shall be prudent in the use and protection of information acquired in the course of their
duties.
3.2. Shall not use information for any personal gain or in any manner that would be contrary
to the law or detrimental to the legitimate and ethical objectives of the organization.
4. Competency
Internal Auditors:
4.1. Shall engage only in those services for which they have the necessary knowledge, skills, and
experience.
4.2. Shall perform internal audit services in accordance with the International Standards for the
Professional Practice of Internal Auditing.
4.3. Shall continually improve their proficiency and the effectiveness and quality of their services.
Code of Ethics
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