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Glossary · Audit and Assurance

What is Management override of controls?

Management's ability to manipulate accounting records or prepare fraudulent financial statements by overriding controls that otherwise appear to operate effectively.

Because this risk is present in every entity, it is always treated as a significant risk. The auditor tests journal entries and period-end adjustments, reviews estimates for bias and examines significant unusual transactions.

Source: BDS 240

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Last updated: October 31, 2026 · This definition is for general information only.

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