Is it acceptable for an auditor to provide a backup policy template to the auditee to resolve a detected nonconformity?

The rationale for the correct answer hinges on the principles of audit independence and objectivity. In the auditing profession, particularly concerning ISO/IEC 27001, auditors are expected to maintain impartiality and objectivity throughout the audit process. Providing a specific template or solution, such as a backup policy template, can introduce bias into the auditor's role. It may create a perception of a conflict of interest or compromise the independence that is essential for credible auditing.

By suggesting a specific solution, an auditor could be viewed as taking on a consultative role rather than an objective evaluator. This could undermine the integrity of the audit process, as it may lead the auditee to believe that the auditor has a vested interest in the outcomes, potentially influencing their judgment regarding the nonconformities detected.

Preserving audit independence ensures that the conclusions drawn and reported are grounded in an unbiased assessment, which ultimately reinforces the reliability of the audit findings and recommendations. The integrity of the audit process depends on the ability of the auditor to evaluate situations without interference or bias, maintaining a clear distinction between audit and advisory roles.