Evaluating the Impact of Cloud Accounting Adoption on Financial Cybersecurity and the Quality of Accounting Reports: An Analytical Study of Iraqi Private Commercial Banks
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Abstract : This study aims to analyze the role of cloud accounting in enhancing financial cybersecurity and improving the quality of accounting reports in Iraqi private commercial banks within the context of ongoing digital transformation. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach through a comprehensive review of the relevant literature and previous studies, as well as an analysis of the conceptual relationships among the study variables. In addition, several financial indicators were utilized, including the non-performing loans ratio, capital adequacy ratio, liquidity coverage ratio, return on assets (ROA), and the Z-Score index, as supporting indicators for assessing the effectiveness of internal control systems and the level of financial stability.
To examine the evolution of the Iraqi banking environment, the study period (2006–2024) was divided into three stages: the pre-digital transformation stage (2006–2015), the early digital transformation stage (2016–2020), and the digital expansion stage (2021–2024). The findings indicate that the adoption of cloud accounting applications can contribute to strengthening internal control systems, improving financial cybersecurity risk management, and enhancing the quality of accounting reports through greater accuracy, reliability, relevance, and timeliness of accounting information. The analysis also suggests that digital transformation can support financial stability and improve banking performance when accompanied by effective cybersecurity measures and sound governance practices.
The study recommends accelerating the adoption of cloud accounting technologies in Iraqi banks, increasing investments in cybersecurity infrastructure, developing regulatory and legislative frameworks related to digital transformation, enhancing workforce capabilities through specialized training programs, and adopting international standards for information security and digital risk management.
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