Big data is characterized by the 4 Vs:

Volume – Large amounts of data.

Velocity – Data is generated rapidly and continuously changing.

Variety – Data comes in multiple formats (structured, unstructured, multimedia, etc.).

Veracity – Ensuring data quality and reliability.

Among these, constant change (velocity) is a defining characteristic of big data.

(A) Incorrect – Big data is being generated slowly due to volume.

Big data is generated at high speed (velocity), not slowly.

(B) Incorrect – Big data must be relevant for the purposes of organizations.

While relevance is important, it is not a defining characteristic of big data.

(C) Incorrect – Big data comes from a single type of format.

Big data consists of multiple formats, including text, images, videos, and unstructured data.

(D) Correct – Big data is always changing.

Big data is dynamic and constantly updated in real-time.

This high velocity and continuous flow of information is a key characteristic.

IIA’s GTAG (Global Technology Audit Guide) – Big Data and Analytics

Describes how big data is constantly evolving.

NIST Big Data Framework – Key Characteristics

Defines volume, velocity, variety, and veracity as essential traits.

COBIT Framework – IT Governance and Data Management

Emphasizes the need for organizations to manage rapidly changing data.

Analysis of Answer Choices:IIA References and Internal Auditing Standards: