Audit Trail And Transparency In Cloud-Based Auditing

Abstract

In the era of digital transformation, organizations increasingly rely on cloud-based solutions for their auditing processes to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and scalability. This research paper explores the pivotal role of audit trails and transparency in cloud-based auditing, addressing the challenges, benefits, and implications for ensuring robust security and accountability in the ever-evolving landscape of cloud computing. The paper begins by delving into the fundamental concepts of audit trails and transparency in the context of cloud-based auditing. Audit trails serve as chronological records of activities, providing a comprehensive view of actions performed within the auditing system. Transparency, on the other hand, emphasizes openness and visibility in the auditing process, fostering trust among stakeholders. Together, these elements contribute to the establishment of a secure and accountable auditing environment. One of the primary challenges in cloud-based auditing is the dynamic nature of cloud computing environments. The paper examines how the inherent complexities of cloud architectures, such as multi-tenancy and virtualization, can pose challenges to maintaining an effective audit trail. Furthermore, the dynamic allocation of resources and the use of third-party services demand innovative solutions to ensure the integrity and completeness of audit records. To address these challenges, the paper proposes a framework that combines advanced cryptographic techniques, secure logging mechanisms, and real-time monitoring to strengthen the audit trail in cloud-based environments. Emphasizing the importance of encryption and hashing algorithms, the framework aims to safeguard sensitive information while maintaining the transparency required for auditing purposes. Additionally, the integration of machine learning algorithms for anomaly detection enhances the system’s ability to identify and respond to irregularities promptly.