An independent risk assessment for banks systematically analyses risks in IT, telecommunications and security systems. It ensures legal compliance with regulations such as MaRisk, BAIT and DORA, identifies vulnerabilities, and derives manufacturer-independent measures to strengthen the bank's digital and physical resilience and avoid financial and reputational damage.

How an external perspective strengthens the security and legal compliance of your financial institution

An independent risk assessment is essential to identify vulnerabilities and sustainably secure your institution's resilience.

Key Takeaways

  • An independent risk assessment is essential for banks in order to avoid organisational blind spots and obtain an objective evaluation of all risk areas.
  • Compliance with MaRisk, DORA and KRITIS requirements calls for continuous, specialised risk assessment, which can be made more efficient through external expertise.

The banking sector is a central pillar of the economy and, at the same time, a preferred target for a wide range of threats. From sophisticated cyberattacks to physical security risks to the complex demands of regulation – the challenges facing financial institutions are immense. A well-founded, and above all independent, risk assessment is therefore not just a statutory obligation but a strategic necessity. It forms the foundation for guaranteeing the integrity, confidentiality and availability of critical systems and data, and thus for securing operational resilience and customer trust. The complexity of modern banking infrastructure calls for external expertise that operates free from internal blind spots and manufacturer interests.

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The Need for an Independent Risk Assessment in the Banking Sector

Banks operate in an environment shaped by constant technological development and a dynamically changing threat landscape. Securing financial transactions, sensitive customer data and critical infrastructure demands the utmost care. According to the 2025 TÜV Cybersecurity Study, 15 percent of German companies fell victim to a successful cyberattack in the past year, an increase of four percentage points compared with 2023. Phishing was the most widespread method, accounting for 84 percent of incidents. These figures illustrate the acute and growing danger. An internal risk assessment can often be limited by organisational blind spots or insufficient resources. This is where the independent perspective comes in: an external expert brings not only a fresh pair of eyes but also specialised knowledge of current threats and proven countermeasures. This is crucial for identifying vulnerabilities that may be overlooked internally, and for obtaining a comprehensive, objective assessment of the risk situation. Management bears the ultimate responsibility for the bank's security and legal compliance, which is why a well-founded external assessment represents an indispensable basis for decision-making.

The financial sector in Germany and Europe is subject to strict regulation that imposes high demands on risk management and IT security. The central frameworks here are BaFin's Minimum Requirements for Risk Management (MaRisk), the 8th amendment of which was published in May 2024. These set out in detail the statutory requirements of the Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz, KWG) and establish a framework for the technical and organisational setup of institutions. In addition, the Supervisory Requirements for IT in Financial Institutions (BAIT) came into force; however, since 17 January 2025 these have been progressively superseded by the European Regulation on digital operational resilience for the financial sector (DORA), and are expected to be fully repealed by 31 December 2026. DORA sets out comprehensive requirements for ICT risk management, the reporting of major ICT-related incidents, and the testing of digital operational resilience.

In addition, financial institutions are often classified as operators of critical infrastructure (KRITIS) under the BSI KRITIS Regulation, which brings additional obligations to ensure the availability, integrity, authenticity and confidentiality of their IT systems. In January 2026, the Bundestag passed the KRITIS Umbrella Act to strengthen the resilience of critical facilities. DIN 14675 and DIN VDE 0833-2 are decisive for planning fire alarm systems, while VdS 2095 is often required by property insurers and supplements the requirements of the DIN standards with insurance-related aspects. An independent risk assessment ensures that all relevant national and European requirements are taken into account and that the necessary measures for legal compliance are implemented.

Methodology of a Comprehensive Risk Assessment for Banks

An effective risk assessment in the banking environment requires a structured, holistic methodology. The process begins with a detailed as-is analysis, in which all relevant systems, processes and infrastructure are captured. This covers the IT landscape, telecommunications systems, physical security installations such as fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems and access control systems, and the energy supply. A comprehensive needs analysis follows, taking into account not only current requirements but also future developments and regulatory changes.

The core of the assessment lies in risk identification and evaluation. Potential threats and vulnerabilities are systematically captured here, and their probability of occurrence and potential impact are assessed. This includes cyber risks, failure risks, physical attacks and natural disasters. DGUV Information 215-611, for example, provides guidance on preparing a risk assessment for the safe handling of cash and the prevention of violence-related hazards. Based on this evaluation, concrete risk-mitigation measures are derived. These range from technical adjustments to organisational processes to staff training. PLANATEL® follows an iterative approach here, providing for continuous review and adjustment of the measures to ensure lasting resilience. Documenting all steps is essential for traceability and for meeting the evidentiary obligations towards supervisory authorities.

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Specific Risk Areas in Banks and Their Independent Assessment

Risk areas in banks are diverse and require specialised examination. An independent risk assessment analyses these areas in detail:

  • IT infrastructure and cybersecurity: This includes assessing network security, data encryption, access controls, vulnerability management, and defences against cyberattacks such as ransomware or DDoS attacks. In its "Risks in Focus 2025", BaFin emphasises that technological developments and cyber risks are among the main threats. A Bitkom study puts the damage caused by cybercrime in Germany in 2025 at €202.4 billion, an increase of around 20 percent compared with the previous year.
  • Telecommunications systems: The availability and security of communication channels (telephony, unified communication, carrier management) are critical to bank operations. Outages can cause significant financial and reputational damage.
  • Fire alarm systems: Protecting data centres, archives and office premises from fire hazards is essential. The planning of fire alarm systems must meet the requirements of DIN 14675, DIN VDE 0833-2 and, where applicable, VdS 2095, in order to ensure early detection and alerting.
  • Intrusion detection systems and access control: The physical security of branches, vaults and server rooms must be ensured through intrusion detection and access control systems. DIN VDE 0833-3 governs the requirements for intrusion detection systems here.
  • Video surveillance systems: Video surveillance systems must be planned and operated in accordance with VdS 2366 to prevent crime and help investigate incidents.
  • Energy supply: Uninterruptible power supply systems (UPS), battery installations and emergency standby power systems are essential for the continuous operation of critical IT systems.

The independent assessment of these areas ensures that all risks are evaluated objectively and that the optimal protective measures are planned.

The Role of Manufacturer Independence and Financial Independence

In the context of a risk assessment for banks, the manufacturer independence and financial independence of the consulting firm are of decisive importance. Many providers in the market are tied to particular manufacturers or product ranges, which can inevitably influence their recommendations. This can result in a bank not being offered the objectively best or most cost-efficient solution, but rather the one that brings the greatest benefit to the consultant or installer. Such manufacturer dependency carries the risk of suboptimal investments, inflated costs and long-term commitment to inflexible systems.

PLANATEL® has operated as a 100% independent, financially self-sufficient planning and consulting company since 1992. We receive no commissions or other benefits whatsoever from manufacturers, suppliers or installers. This strict independence allows us to act exclusively in our clients' interest. Our recommendations are based on an objective analysis of the bank's specific requirements, the current market situation, and the best available technologies. We identify the optimal solutions that not only guarantee the highest security and legal compliance, but are also economically viable and allow for long-term flexibility. This independence is the cornerstone of trust and the sustained success of our projects.

From Analysis to Implementation: Planning Measures and Continuous Review

A risk assessment is only the first step. The real value comes from consistently planning and implementing the derived measures. After the detailed risk analysis and definition of protection needs, we develop a tailored target concept together with the bank. This concept includes concrete technical and organisational measures for risk mitigation, for example modernising fire alarm systems to DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, implementing new access control systems, or strengthening the IT security architecture in line with the requirements of DORA and MaRisk.

PLANATEL® accompanies the entire process, from detailed planning through tendering and award to implementation support and acceptance. We prepare precise specifications of services, evaluate bids on a manufacturer-independent basis, and ensure that the selected installer companies meet the highest quality standards. After the measures have been successfully implemented, continuous review and adjustment are essential. The threat landscape is constantly evolving, and internal processes can also change. Regular audits, operational-principle tests and updates to the risk assessment are therefore necessary to guarantee the effectiveness of the protective measures in the long term and to continuously secure legal compliance.

Common Mistakes in Risk Assessment and How to Avoid Them

Despite the obvious necessity of a risk assessment, mistakes repeatedly creep in during practice that can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the measures. A common mistake is a superficial or incomplete analysis that fails to cover all relevant risk areas or potential threats. This can result in critical vulnerabilities going undetected. Another pitfall is internal organisational blindness: when the assessment is carried out solely by internal staff, established processes or known weaknesses can be perceived as "normal" and thus overlooked.

There is also often a lack of continuous updating of the assessment. The dynamic evolution of cyber threats and regulatory requirements (e.g. through the introduction of DORA or amendments to MaRisk) makes a static approach obsolete. A risk assessment is not a one-off project but an ongoing process. In addition, a focus on individual aspects rather than a holistic view can jeopardise overall security. For example, it is not enough to consider IT security alone if physical security or the emergency power supply have vulnerabilities. PLANATEL® helps banks avoid these mistakes by bringing an external, holistic perspective, drawing on more than 34 years of experience, and offering a structured approach to continuous risk assessment and measure planning. This ensures a comprehensive, future-oriented resilience strategy.

The PLANATEL® Approach: Over 34 Years of Expertise for Your Bank

Since its founding in 1992, PLANATEL® has established itself as an independent, competent management consulting company. With more than 34 years of experience in planning and optimising complex infrastructures, we are the ideal partner for financial institutions seeking a well-founded, manufacturer-independent risk assessment. Our approach is holistic and covers all relevant areas: from information and telecommunications technology to fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance and access control, through to energy and facility management.

We understand the specific requirements and regulatory particularities of the banking sector. Our expertise allows us not only to identify risks but also to develop practical, future-proof solutions tailored exactly to your bank's needs. We plan maintenance concepts and select certified installers to ensure the quality of implementation. Our financial independence guarantees that our recommendations are always objective and in the best interests of our clients. With PLANATEL®, you gain a trustworthy partner who supports you in strengthening your digital and physical resilience, securing legal compliance, and structuring your investments in security systems optimally. We offer you not just consulting, but a strategic partnership for a secure future.

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Next Step

Contact us for a no-obligation initial consultation.

PLANATEL®: Independent planning and consulting since 1992
Phone: 040 / 23 73 02-30
Email: info@planatel.de

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the biggest cyber risks for banks in 2026?

According to current reports, cyberattacks remain the biggest challenge for banks through to 2030. Phishing attacks in particular, which are becoming even more sophisticated through the use of artificial intelligence, pose a significant threat. Ransomware and attacks on critical infrastructure, some originating from state-sponsored hacker groups, also remain highly relevant. Damage from cybercrime in Germany is estimated at €202.4 billion for 2025, underscoring the urgency of robust defensive measures.

How does PLANATEL® support banks in implementing DORA requirements?

PLANATEL® supports banks in implementing DORA requirements through a comprehensive analysis of the ICT risk management framework, evaluation of the reporting processes for major ICT-related incidents, and planning tests of digital operational resilience. We help adapt existing IT strategies and processes to the new European requirements, in order to ensure legal compliance and sustainably strengthen the bank's digital resilience. Our manufacturer-independent consulting guarantees optimal, future-proof solutions here.

What advantages does an external risk assessment offer over an internal one?

An external risk assessment offers the decisive advantage of an objective, unbiased perspective. External experts are not affected by internal organisational blindness and bring specialised knowledge of current threats and best practices from various industries. This makes it possible to identify vulnerabilities that may be overlooked internally, and leads to a more comprehensive, better-founded risk assessment. It also relieves internal resources and secures legal compliance through independent expertise.

To what extent are physical security systems part of a risk assessment for banks?

Physical security systems are an integral part of a comprehensive risk assessment for banks. These include fire alarm systems for protection against fire, intrusion detection and access control systems for securing buildings and sensitive areas, and video surveillance systems for the prevention and investigation of crime. The emergency power supply for critical systems is also assessed. These systems must be planned and operated in accordance with the relevant DIN standards and VdS guidelines, in order to ensure holistic protection.

Legal compliance means that all aspects of the risk assessment and the resulting measures conform to the applicable laws, regulations and supervisory requirements. For banks, this includes in particular compliance with MaRisk, the DORA Regulation, the BSI KRITIS Regulation, and the relevant DIN standards and VdS guidelines for security systems. An independent assessment helps ensure that the bank not only meets the minimum requirements but also proactively responds to new regulatory developments, in order to avoid potential penalties and reputational damage.

Which BaFin circulars are relevant for risk assessment in banks?

For risk assessment in banks, BaFin's Minimum Requirements for Risk Management (MaRisk) are primarily relevant. The Supervisory Requirements for IT in Financial Institutions (BAIT) are being progressively superseded by the European DORA Regulation, which has applied directly since 17 January 2025 and imposes comprehensive requirements on ICT risk management.

Why is manufacturer independence important for risk assessment in banks?

An independent consultant who has no financial ties to manufacturers can identify the best solutions, optimally tailored to the bank's specific needs, rather than favouring particular providers' products. This avoids manufacturer dependency and secures cost-efficiency and flexibility in the long term.

What role do DIN standards and VdS guidelines play in planning fire alarm systems in banks?

DIN standards such as DIN 14675 and DIN VDE 0833-2 set out the fundamental requirements for the planning, installation and operation of fire alarm systems. VdS guidelines, in particular VdS 2095, supplement these standards with insurance-related aspects and are often required by property insurers, in order to guarantee a high degree of functional safety and reliability.

How often should a risk assessment in a bank be updated?

A risk assessment should not be understood as a one-off project but as a continuous process. Given the dynamic evolution of cyber threats, technological innovations and changing regulatory requirements (e.g. DORA, MaRisk), regular reviews and updates are essential to secure the effectiveness of the protective measures in the long term and ensure legal compliance.

Sources and Further Information