All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Read the following statement carefully and identify the action that follows.
A manager finds data manipulation in quarterly reports.
Course of Action:
1. Conduct an internal audit.
2. Take strict action against guilty staff.

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2025 Tier 2 Paper 1 Question Paper (19-Jan-2026)
The correct answer is
Both follow

Data Manipulation: Course of Action Analysis

The scenario involves a manager discovering data manipulation in quarterly reports. This is a serious issue requiring appropriate responses.

Evaluating Course of Action 1: Internal Audit

Conducting an internal audit is a critical first step. This action aims to:

  • Verify the extent and nature of the data manipulation.
  • Identify the specific reports and data points affected.
  • Gather evidence regarding the manipulation.
  • Understand the root cause and potential systemic issues.

An audit provides the necessary factual basis before deciding on further steps.

Evaluating Course of Action 2: Strict Action

Taking strict action against guilty staff is also essential. This action addresses:

  • Accountability for misconduct.
  • Deterrence against future data manipulation.
  • Maintaining the integrity of reporting processes.
  • Upholding organizational ethical standards.

Action is necessary to enforce rules and maintain trust, but it typically follows or is informed by an investigation (like an audit).

Conclusion on Both Actions

Discovering data manipulation necessitates both investigation and accountability. An internal audit (Action 1) is required to confirm the facts and scope. Based on the audit findings, strict action (Action 2) against those responsible becomes necessary to uphold integrity and deter future occurrences. Therefore, both courses of action are appropriate and often sequential.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. In this question, a statement is followed by two courses of action, numbered I and II. You must assume everything in the statement to be true and on the basis of the information given in the statement, decide which of the course of action/s logically follows for pursuing. S

    Statement: Many people have complained to the Finance Ministry regarding a delay in receiving refunds of their Income Tax returns. 

    Courses of action: 

    I.The Finance Ministry must institute an enquiry into the complaints received regarding delay in income tax refunds. 

    II.The Finance Ministry must compensate the income tax payees by paying interest on their refunds for the duration of the delay.

  2. Consider the following statement and choose the option that follows.

    Problem: Frequent breakdown of ATM machines in remote areas.

    Course of Action:
    Action I. Banks should deploy mobile ATMs in these areas.
    Action II. Banks should shut down ATMs that face regular issues.

  3. Consider the following statement and choose the option that follows.

    Problem: Customers report long wait times at branches.

    Course of Action:

    I. Increase the number of service counters.

    II. Encourage use of online and mobile banking.

  4. Read the following statement carefully and identify the action that follows.

    Statement: Students often get distracted during online classes.

    Course of Action:

    1. Introduce interactive tools and quizzes.

    2. Ban online classes permanently.

  5. Read the following statement carefully and identify the action that follows.

    Statement: Cases of online fraud have increased rapidly.
    Course of Action:
    1. Introduce mandatory cyber awareness training.
    2. Remove all online payment options.
  6. As a judge, you notice a lawyer influencing a witness. What should you do?
  7. You're assigned a task you don't know how to do. What's your best course of action?
  8. Read the following statement carefully and identify the action that follows.

    Statement: A company is facing frequent data breaches.
    Course of action:
    1. Hire a cybersecurity team.
    2. Shut down the IT infrastructure.
  9. Read the following statement carefully and identify the action that follows. 

    Statement: Road accidents have increased in the city during the last six months. 

    Course of Action: 

    1. Traffic police should be instructed to strictly monitor driving rules. 

    2. Public should be educated about road safety.

  10. Read the following statement carefully and identify the action that follows.

    Statement: A recent study shows rising childhood obesity.
    Course of Action:
    1. Ban all junk food advertisements.
    2. Make physical activity mandatory in schools.

Important Questions from Course of Action

  1. Statement: The Central Bureau of Investigations (CBI) receives the complaint of an officer taking bribes to do the duty he is supposed to.

    Courses of action:

    I. CBI should try to catch the officer red-handed and then take strict action against him.

    II. CBI should wait for some more complaints about the officer to be sure about the matter.

    The appropriate course(s) of an action is/are:

  2. You buy a bottle of packed water on a street and end up emptying the bottle. What will you do?

  3. While travelling in a train, you found that some college students pulling the alarm chain simply to get down at their desired point, you would (Select the most appropriate alternative as the answer)

  4. While going on a scooter, you find someone has been hurt by your vehicle, you would (Select thee most appropriate alternative as the answer)

  5. Your maid has invited you to her daughter's wedding. You would (Select the most appropriate alternative as the answer)

Need Expert Advice?
Upcoming Exams
SSC CGL
September 30, 2026
UPSSSC PET
October 23, 2026
Test Series
SSC CGL img
SSC
SSC CGL (Tier I + Tier II) 2026 Mock Test Series - Latest Pattern
2503 Tests 6 Tests Free
5182 Attempts
4.2(860)
English, Hindi

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App