The audit committee has been recognized as an important entity level control. Independent auditors rely upon the audit committee to provide the auditors with important information necessary to perform the audit function. For example, AS No. 16 requires the independent auditor to “inquire of the audit committee about whether it is aware of matters relevant to the audit, including, but not limited to, violations or possible violations of laws or regulations.”
 

Most CEOs and directors believe that, by installing a hotline and creating a paper whistleblower policy, they have established an effective internal whistleblower system. They are misled by the fact that occasionally the hotline is used for typical employee grievances, such as perceived discrimination or sexual harassment complaints.