Question 1 (Total: 20 Marks, 30 minutes)
(a) Briefly explain the developments taking place in the fourth industrial 1
revolution.
ANSWER:
The Fourth Industrial Revolution builds on the digital foundation of the
third and is marked by a fusion of technologies blurring the lines
between physical, digital, and biological spheres.(1)
(b) Which of the characteristics below are best associated with the fouth 3
industrial revolution:
1) Renewable Energy: Advances in solar and wind technology
altering energy industries.
2) Internet of Things (IoT): IoT technology integrates physical
devices, vehicles, and other items with electronics, software, sensors,
and connectivity.
3) Advanced Robotics: These systems are increasingly capable
of performing tasks once thought to require human intelligence.
4) Automation: Robotics and automated production lines
improving efficiency in manufacturing.
5) Biotechnology: Genetic engineering and CRISPR technology
revolutionising medicine and agriculture.
6) Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: These
technologies are enhancing capabilities in data processing and
decision-making
a) 1,3,4,5 and 6
b) 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6
c) 2, 3, 5 and 6
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d) 1 to 6
ANSWER:
c) 2, 3, 5 and 6 (3)
(c) Name the four (4) benefits of cryptocurrencies as a method of 4
payment.
ANSWER:
1. Fast and secure transactions(1)
2. Low transaction fees(1)
3. Decentralized and transparent(1)
4. Ability to make cross border payments without the need for
intermediaries(1)
(d) Describe what a hacker is. 1
ANSWER:
Hackers: skilled persons that exploit a computer system
for improper objectives
(1)
(e) Match the following malicious codes to the appropriate description: 3
Malicious code:
1. Virus
2. Spyware
3. Phishing
Descriptions:
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a) Self-replicating programme, that is self contained (i.e. doesn’t need
host) that performs functions without user intervention
b) Programme that steals information from the system its running
c) Abuse of electronic messaging systems to send unsolicited,
undesired bulk messages to various email addresses (cheap from of
advertising)
d) Code that copies itself to computer host and causes damage
e) Using emails that “seem” to be coming from legitimate sources, to
steal information (e.g. “bank” asking for identity verification)
ANSWER:
1. d(1)
2. b(1)
3. e(1)
(f) The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of objects, devices, 5
vehicles, etc. embedded with sensors, software, network, connectivity
and computer capability, that can collect and exchange data over the
Internet. IoT enables devices to be connected and remotely monitored
or controlled. The term IoT has come to represent any device that is
now “connected” and accessible via a network connection.
Name five (5) examples of how the Internet of Thing (IoT) can be
applied in accounting and/or business.
ANSWER:
Any five of the answers below:
1. Inventory and material tracking(1)
2. Real-time asset monitoring(1)
3. Connected operational intelligence(1)
4. Customer self-service(1)
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5. Usage and performance benchmarking(1)
6. Data integration and analytics(1)
7. Connected service part management(1)
8. Remote service(1)
9. Real time market insights(1)
10. Flexible billing and pricing models(1)
(g) In your opinion do you think artificial intelligence will ever become self- 3
aware/sentient? Also provide two (2) reasons to support your opinion.
ANSWER:
Markers discresion, are the reasons well defined, and do they support
the opinion? Opinion (1) 2 Clearly defined reasons that support the
opinion (2). Student can argue both sides – Opinion (1) reasons for
both sides of the argument (1) for yes reason and (1) for no reason
Examples of reasons supporting YES
1 Advanced Neural Networks: AI with neural networks similar to the
human brain might develop self-awareness as these networks
become more complex.
2 Emergent Complexity: As AI systems get more complex, they
might develop new properties, including self-recognition.
3 Sophisticated Learning Algorithms: Advanced learning
algorithms could allow AI to understand and reflect on its own
processes, potentially leading to self-awareness.
4 Human-Like Cognitive Architectures: AI designed with cognitive
functions similar to human thought might develop self-awareness if
these functions enable a sense of self.
5 Integration of Multiple Modalities: Combining various sensory
inputs and cognitive functions in AI might create an understanding of
its own existence.
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6 Self-Improvement Mechanisms: AI that can self-improve and
adapt might develop a form of awareness about its own growth and
abilities.
7 Complex Interaction with Environment: AI interacting with its
environment in sophisticated ways might develop self-awareness as
it adapts to complex situations.
8 Ethical and Philosophical Design: AI designed with a focus on
achieving sentience and ethical considerations might develop self-
awareness.
Examples of reasons supporting NO
1 Lack of Consciousness: AI operates based on algorithms and
data processing, lacking the subjective experience or consciousness
required for self-awareness.
2 No Genuine Understanding: AI systems process information but
do not truly understand or experience it. They follow programmed
instructions without personal insight or awareness.
3 Limited Complexity: Current AI systems are not complex enough
to simulate or replicate the nuanced processes of human cognition
and self-awareness.
4 Absence of Intentionality: AI lacks intentionality or personal goals,
which are often associated with self-awareness. It does not have
desires, intentions, or a sense of self.
5 No Emotional Experience: Self-awareness is often linked to
emotional experiences, which AI does not possess. It processes data
without feelings or personal perspectives.
6 Predefined Responses: AI operates based on predefined
algorithms and does not have the ability to reflect on its own
operations or modify its behavior beyond its programming.
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7 No Subjective Experience: AI does not have a personal
perspective or inner life. Its responses are generated from data
patterns rather than personal experience.
8 Ethical and Philosophical Limits: Ethical and philosophical
considerations may limit the development of AI systems designed to
achieve self-awareness, ensuring they remain tools rather than
sentient beings.
Question 2 (Total: 25 marks, 37.5 minutes)
(a) There are five (5) components of internal controls. Select any three 6
(3) components and provide a brief explanation of each.
ANSWER:
Any three of the below named and explained for a total of 6 marks.
1. Control environment (1): culture, policies and practices that set the
tone for the control of the business. Includes management attitudes,
training, hiring and policies (1)
2. Risk assessment (1): assessment/identification of risks given the
objectives of the business (1)
3. Control activities (1): the actual controls a business puts in place to
counteract the risk identified (1). General IT and Information
Processing controls (1)
4. Information and communication (1): the underlying information
needs to be reliable. Communication throughout the organization
needs to be efficient and reliable (1)
5. Monitoring (1): to assess whether controls actually work as
intended. Can intentionally hack the system to see if controls actually
hold up (1)
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(b) Explain under which circumstances would you recommend packaged 2
software to a business
ANSWER:
Markers discression. Expect that the answer to be that it would be
recommended to businesses that do not perform specific operations
that would warrant specilased software.(2)
Guidance: Packaged software is available to the general public and
addresses most general business needs. I would expect the answer
to indicate that packaged software would be applicable for businesses
that do not perform highly specialised operations that would justify the
use of custom software.
(c) Describe two (3) advantages and two (2) disadvantages of buying “off 5
the shelf” software
ANSWER:
Advantages (Any 3 of the below)
1. Immediate installation (ready) (1)
2. Predetermined cost (often cheaper than in-house developed). (1)
3. Can request demonstration before buying, therefore, less risk. (1)
4. Suppliers normally offer training. (1)
5. Manual/documentation comes with the product. (1)
6. Continual upgrading at often lesser cost. (1)
7. Supplier can provide support post the sale. (1)
Disadvantages (Any 2 of the below)
1. Not tailor-made for organization’s requirements. (1)
2. Pre-written, thus not adaptable for changes. (1)
3. Written to supplier’s standards. (1)
4. Often from overseas, risk that it does not cater for SA(1)
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5. Often manuals are inadequate and low quality. (1)
(d) What is the differenence between general controls and information 2
processing controls?
ANSWER:
General controls establish an overall framework of control (1).
Information processing controls are relevant to a specific task within a
cycle (1).
(e) Provide a short description of the following elements of information 3
processing controls:
1) Input control (1)
2) Processing control (1)
3) Output control (1)
ANSWER:
1) Input control: Controls designed to ensure that data entered to
update mater files have occurred, are authorized, complete & valid.
(1)
2) Processing control: Controls to ensure that only valid data is
processed, and that the data is processed completely and accurately.
(1)
3) Controls designed to ensure that output (which is the product of
processing) is accurate and complete and that its distribution is strictly
controlled, for example, confidential output does not go to the wrong
individuals. (1)
(f) Name three (3) Input Controls that support the Validity control 3
objective.
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ANSWER:
Any three of the controls listed below.
- Access control(1)
- Authorisation by management(1)
- Close involvement of management in day to day transactions(1)
- Limit on changes and individual can make(1)
- Segregation of duties, staff training and staff recruitment policies(1)
- Authorisation of transactions by user. (1)
- Review of authorisation procedures(1)
- Authorisation of changes to data(1)
(g) Name two (2) Input Controls that support the Completeness control 2
objective.
ANSWER:
Any two of the controls listed below.
- Sequential numbering(1)
- Matching by the computer(1)
- Field presence checks(1)
(h) Describe a type of access control you encounter in your daily life and 2
specify whether it is logical or physical.
ANSWER:
Markers discression, can be any access control as long as the control
is a valid access control and clearly explained (1) Correctly classifying
the access control as Logical or Physical (1)
Guidance:
Logical: gaining access to be able to interact with software or an
application.
Examples:
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Unlocking of cellphone with a password, fingerprint or facial
recognition (Logical)
Logging into a computer,Blackboard, on-line banking app etc (Logical)
Physical: gaining access to a place or item itself
Locking the door to their room (Physical)
Using their student card gain access to the University at the turnstyle
or booms (Physical)
Locking a motorvehicle or starting a motorvehicle (Physical)
Question 3 (Total marks: 15, Time: 22.5 minutes)
(a) List the six (6) steps to ensure the effective use of antivirus software 6
ANSWER:
1. Install Antivirus Software(1)
2. Keep Antivirus Software Updated (1)
3. Scan Removable Media(1)
4. Install Software from Trusted Sources(1)
5. Be Cautious with Downloads(1)
6. Act Swiftly if a Virus is Detected(1)
(b) List and discuss three things you should consider in order to avoid 6
falling victim to computer scams.
ANSWER:
Any three of the below listed with essence of the desciption provided:
1. Take Time to Decide (1): When faced with high-pressure meetings
or seminars, don't rush into agreements. Insist on having the time to
evaluate and discuss the matter with others. If a company doesn't
grant you the time to make an informed decision, it's best to avoid
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doing business with them. A genuinely good deal will remain attractive
tomorrow; rushing is a tactic used when there's something
questionable to hide(1).
2. Don't Judge Based on Appearance(1): Professional-looking
websites can be swiftly created, often within days. This is especially
pertinent now with the aid of artificial intelligence(1).
3. Avoid Recruitment-Driven Plans(1): Be cautious of schemes that
offer commissions primarily for recruiting more distributors. Your main
income source should stem from your own product sales. If earnings
predominantly rely on recruiting rather than actual product sales, it
might indicate an illegal pyramid scheme(1).
4. Be Aware of "Shills"(1): Some individuals are paid by companies to
falsely boast about their earnings and how effortless the plan is to
operate. Consult an independent source to ensure you aren't being
misled(1).
5. Get Policies in Writing(1): Obtain written documentation of refund,
buy-back, and cancellation policies from any company you engage
with. Relying solely on verbal assurances is not advisable(1).
(c) In your future career you will most likely be spending a lot of time in 3
front of a computer. Name three measures that your future employer
should have in place to alleviate the strain of prolonged computer use.
ANSWER:
Markers discression (as long as answers are within the spheres of the
items listed below):
• Ergonomics, the discipline focused on designing machines,
products, and systems for optimal safety, comfort, and
efficiency for users, has offered remedies to mitigate these
health problems.
• Researchers have delved into factors such as:
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• the slope of keyboards,
• placement and design of screens, and
• arrangement of computer tables and chairs.
• Certain companies also implement
• mandatory screen breaks (e.g., no work after a certain
time) and
• favour LED screens for their gentler impact on the eyes.
• Incorporating
• periodic breaks,
• engaging in walks, and
• stretching can likewise help alleviate the strain
associated with prolonged computer use.
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