Field notes · Trust
Start a software security review with a question
A feature list is a starting point for a security discussion. A useful question asks how a control works and what evidence supports the answer.
The short answer
Start a software security review by naming the decision your firm needs to make. Ask how access is granted, how data is handled, who approves a proposed change and what evidence is available. Record the answer and the supporting material separately from an unverified assurance.
Connect the question to the decision
“Is the software secure?” is too broad to guide a review. A question such as “How is a user’s access removed?” identifies a process that the firm can examine. The answer can then be compared with the firm’s own requirements.
CISA explains that multifactor authentication adds identity verification beyond a password and recommends phishing-resistant methods for businesses. That guidance helps frame a question about access. It does not certify a particular product or prove its configuration.
Ask what supports the answer
The objective is a documented discussion. A statement about a provider’s terms should be supported by the applicable commitment, not inferred from a logo or a marketing badge. An answer about human approval should describe the actual workflow.
- Which access controls apply to the account?
- Which service handles a submitted request?
- Where is the relevant provider commitment documented?
- Who reviews and approves a proposed accounting change?
- What audit evidence can the firm inspect?
Keep open items visible
Use the security questionnaire to record the question, the response, the evidence and the item still to confirm. A blank evidence column is a useful signal to ask a follow-up question; it is not a reason to fill the field with an assumption.
The TAXFINAI security page presents the supplied product commitments and the questionnaire route. The downloadable worksheet is a discussion aid, not a certification. Ask for the current supporting material before making your firm’s adoption decision.
Common questions
Does a completed questionnaire certify a product?
No. It records questions and answers. The firm still assesses the evidence and decides whether its requirements are met.
Can I request more detailed security information?
Yes. Use the security-questionnaire option in the contact journey and identify the evidence you need.
Sources for further reading
Dated source checks do not replace review by the professional responsible for your engagement.
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