Accountants Discussion Forum: Accounting Practices Under Pressure: Managing Cyber, AI and Regulatory Risk
CPD Hours: 2
Price: R450.00
Accountants Discussion Forum: Accounting Practices Under Pressure: Managing Cyber, AI and Regulatory Risk
Presenters : Caryn Maitland CA(SA)
Overview
The modern accounting practice operates within an increasingly complex and high-risk environment shaped by rapid technological advancement, expanding regulatory expectations, and evolving professional responsibilities. Accounting firms are now required to navigate cybersecurity threats, artificial intelligence integration, labour and governance challenges, and heightened compliance obligations while continuing to deliver trusted professional services.
This discussion forum explores how accountants and firm leaders can effectively manage operational, regulatory, and reputational risks arising from digital transformation and regulatory expansion. The session will provide practical insight into strengthening governance frameworks, protecting sensitive client information, and mitigating professional liability exposure in a rapidly changing professional landscape.
Join Caryn Maitland CA(SA) as she examines the evolving risk environment affecting accounting practices and provides practical strategies to help practitioners manage cyber risks, AI adoption, regulatory compliance, and professional governance responsibilities with confidence.
Learning objectives and competencies developed
Through real-world case studies, practical examples and an in-depth analysis of the latest regulatory developments, this webinar will equip you with the following competencies:
• Understand the evolving risk landscape impacting accounting practices
• Recognise professional liability risks arising from cybersecurity threats and artificial intelligence tools
• Identify governance and leadership responsibilities in managing professional staff and ethical workplace culture
• Assess expanding regulatory obligations, including AML and data protection compliance requirements
• Develop practical strategies to mitigate operational, regulatory, and reputational risks within accounting firms
Content to be discussed
The following topics are under discussion for this month:
• Cybersecurity Risk in Accounting Practices
o Nature of sensitive data held by accounting firms
o Financial records, payroll information, banking and identity data
o Cyber threats affecting professional service firms
o Data breaches, ransomware attacks, phishing and social engineering
o Professional liability arising from cyber incidents
o Data protection obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA)
• Artificial Intelligence and Automation in Accounting
o AI-assisted financial statement preparation
o Automated bookkeeping platforms and AI tax compliance tools
o Accuracy and reliability risks associated with AI outputs
o Professional judgement versus algorithmic decision-making
o Ethical considerations in AI-enabled professional services
o Professional responsibility when relying on automated systems
• Labour Law and People Management Risks
o Managing professional staff within modern accounting practices
o Remote work supervision and accountability
o Workplace misconduct and disciplinary procedures
o Staff burnout and professional wellbeing considerations
o Governance responsibilities of partners and firm leadership
o Ethical leadership and professional workplace culture
• Expanding Regulatory Obligations for Accountants
o Anti-Money Laundering compliance under the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA)
o Beneficial ownership verification requirements
o Governance advisory roles of professional accountants
o Increasing regulatory compliance expectations placed on practitioners
o Professional responsibility within high-regulation environments
