A security concept for banks must cover BaFin's strict regulatory requirements, particularly MaRisk and BAIT, as well as physical and electronic security measures. It serves to protect data, assets and people, and requires holistic, manufacturer-independent planning that takes into account all relevant standards such as DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, in order to ensure legal compliance and resilience.

Legal compliance and asset protection through independent specialist planning

A comprehensive security concept that meets all regulatory requirements while remaining flexible enough to respond to new threats is essential. But how do you navigate the jungle of regulations and technical possibilities?

Key Takeaways

  • A holistic security concept for banks must integrate physical, organisational and personnel measures and fully satisfy BaFin's regulatory requirements (MaRisk, BAIT, DORA) as well as technical standards (DIN 14675, VdS 2095).
  • Independent specialist planning is crucial for selecting the objectively best and most cost-effective security systems on a manufacturer-independent basis, and for ensuring the seamless integration of fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance and access control.
  • Continuously optimising the security concept through regular risk analyses, cost-benefit assessments and adjustments to new threat situations and technologies secures the long-term resilience and legal compliance of financial institutions.

The financial sector has always been a prime target for criminal activity, whether through physical attacks or, increasingly, complex cyberattacks. The security requirements for banks are therefore particularly high and subject to constant change. A robust security concept is not merely a matter of trust and reputation protection, but an absolute necessity for safeguarding assets, sensitive customer data and the integrity of business operations. The complexity of the threats and the dynamic nature of regulatory requirements demand a strategic, holistic approach that goes far beyond the mere installation of technology and makes independent specialist planning indispensable.

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Regulatory Framework: BaFin, MaRisk and BAIT as the Foundation

Creating a security concept for banks always begins with an in-depth analysis of the regulatory framework. In Germany, the requirements of the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) are particularly decisive here. The Kreditwesengesetz (KWG) forms the legal basis and obliges financial institutions to safeguard and maintain the functionality of the credit industry as well as to protect creditors. It places all institutions under state banking supervision and introduces a comprehensive licensing system.

These general requirements are given concrete form by the Minimum Requirements for Risk Management (MaRisk) and the Supervisory Requirements for IT in Financial Institutions (BAIT). MaRisk, last amended in June 2023, sets out qualitative minimum requirements for the institution-specific design of risk management and is binding for all national banking institutions. While it also addresses technical requirements, its primary focus is on risk management.

The BAIT, first published in 2017 and updated several times since (most recently in August 2021 and December 2024), give concrete form to the requirements for banks' information technology (IT) and information security. They are based on Section 25a KWG and define which obligations banks and credit institutions must implement with regard to information security in order to ensure secure information processing and information technology. Senior management bears responsibility for compliance with these guidelines and for appointing an information security officer; the BAIT will be gradually replaced by the EU's Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), with organisations required to operate their ICT risk management under DORA being exempted from the BAIT from 17 January 2025, and the BAIT being fully repealed from 1 January 2027. Forward-looking planning must already take these transition periods and the new DORA requirements into account today.

Holistic Security Concepts: Physical, Organisational and Personnel Pillars

An effective security concept for banks goes far beyond the mere implementation of technical systems. It must pursue a holistic strategy that integrates physical, organisational and personnel protection measures. BaFin's requirements, particularly the BAIT, emphasise the need to ensure the physical security of IT systems and to establish controls that safeguard the integrity, availability, authenticity and confidentiality of data.

Physical security covers the protection of buildings, premises and infrastructure against unauthorised access, theft, vandalism and natural disasters. This includes measures such as robust building structures, perimeter protection, video surveillance systems, access control systems and intrusion detection systems (EMA). Banks must ensure that their branches, data centres and administrative buildings are equally protected against external and internal threats. This also includes the secure storage of cash and valuables in safes and secured areas. Storage capacity for video recordings is a particular challenge here, as many banks are required to store video recordings for 90 days, which represents a considerable amount of data for multinational banks with hundreds of branches.

Organisational measures involve defining processes, policies and responsibilities. These include emergency and crisis management plans, regular risk analyses, internal audits, authorisation management for access to systems and data, and clear rules for managing the outsourcing of IT services. Senior management is responsible for defining and adapting the IT organisational and operational structure and must ensure its effective implementation.

Personnel security focuses on employees. This includes background checks, regular training and awareness programmes on information security and risk management. A strong risk culture, in which all employees understand and live out how to handle risk in their daily work, is essential. A corresponding awareness and training programme must be appropriately designed and should, in particular, cover employees' personal responsibility as well as basic procedures and measures for information security.

Electronic Security Systems in Focus: Fire Alarm Systems, Intrusion Detection Systems, Video Surveillance and Access Control

The technical component of a security concept for banks is multi-layered and requires the careful planning and integration of various electronic security systems. These systems must not only function in isolation but also be intelligently networked with one another to ensure the highest level of protection.

  • Fire alarm systems: These are of critical importance in bank buildings to prevent injury and property damage caused by fire. The planning and operation of fire alarm systems must meet the requirements of DIN 14675 and VdS 2095. A fire alarm system receives events from various fire detectors, evaluates them and initiates the appropriate response, such as forwarding a fire alarm to a permanently staffed control room to alert the fire brigade, or triggering a building alarm for evacuation.
  • Intrusion detection systems: Intrusion detection systems protect against unauthorised entry and theft. They comprise sensors on doors, windows and in rooms that trigger an alarm in the event of tampering or movement. Modern intrusion detection systems are often coupled with video surveillance and access control systems to enable comprehensive monitoring and a rapid response.
  • Video surveillance systems: These systems are indispensable for monitoring the interior and exterior areas of banks. They serve to prevent crime, identify perpetrators and secure evidence. Advanced video surveillance systems use intelligent analytics to automatically detect suspicious activity and alert security personnel. The legal implementation of video surveillance must comply with data protection requirements, usually including signage and limited storage periods.
  • Access control systems: These regulate access to sensitive areas within a bank. They can be based on various technologies, such as chip cards, biometric features or PIN codes, and enable precise control of who is granted access, when and where. An effective access control system minimises the risk of internal theft and unauthorised data access.
  • Security management systems (GMS) and building management systems (GLT): These central systems integrate and coordinate all individual security systems. A security management system makes it possible to manage and control alarms and events from fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance and access control from a central location, ensuring a fast and efficient response to security incidents. The building management system extends this by controlling building services equipment, creating synergies in the security strategy.

Selecting and integrating these systems requires detailed specialist planning that takes into account the specific risks and requirements of the bank in question and enables a manufacturer-independent selection of the best solutions.

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Planning Fire Alarm Systems to DIN 14675 and VdS 2095 in Banks

Planning fire alarm systems in banks is a complex undertaking that requires the utmost precision and strict compliance with recognised standards and guidelines. Two key sets of rules here are DIN 14675 and VdS 2095. DIN 14675, revised in January 2020, describes the structure and operation of fire alarm systems and is divided into two parts: Part 1 for structure and operation, Part 2 for requirements for the specialist firm. It is the definitive standard for fire alarm systems that must be connected to the fire brigade.

VdS 2095, last revised in June 2022, supplements DIN 14675 and DIN VDE 0833 with insurance-related requirements and is particularly relevant when explicitly required by property insurers or clients. It describes everything necessary for the planning and installation of fire alarm systems and provides guidance on interfaces and the use of multi-sensor detectors. Compliance with VdS 2095 is essential to protect assets, ensure the protection of people and minimise business interruption caused by fire events.

Planning a fire alarm system to these standards involves several phases: first, a detailed fire detection and alarm concept is drawn up that takes into account the specific circumstances of the bank building, its use and the protection objectives. This includes defining the protection category, the alarm organisation and the type of fire detector. Automatic fire detectors must be selected according to the type of use of the room in order to avoid false alarms as far as possible.

A key aspect is correct documentation, including fire brigade run cards and site plan display panels, which allow the fire brigade to orient themselves quickly in an emergency. The connection to the fire brigade via a transmission device (ÜE) is likewise a critical point, which must be carried out in accordance with the fire brigades' Technical Connection Conditions (TAB). PLANATEL® supports banks in developing these concepts and in selecting certified installers, who must be certified to DIN 14675-2.

Challenges in Implementing and Optimising Security Concepts

Implementing and continuously optimising a security concept in a bank involves a number of challenges that require a strategic approach. One of the biggest hurdles is the complexity of the regulatory landscape. With BaFin's constantly changing requirements (MaRisk, BAIT, DORA) and further national and international standards, banks must continuously adapt their systems and processes to remain legally compliant. This requires not only in-depth expertise but also agile structures in order to respond quickly to new requirements.

Another challenge is the integration of heterogeneous systems. Banks often have a grown infrastructure with various security systems from different manufacturers. Seamlessly integrating fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance, access control and IT security systems into a central security management system is crucial for efficient monitoring and response. Without manufacturer-independent planning, this can lead to compatibility problems, increased operating costs and limited functionality.

Protection against cyber threats is becoming increasingly important. While physical security remains essential, many attacks are shifting into the digital space. A security concept must therefore also include robust cybersecurity measures that provide protection against malware, phishing, ransomware and data leaks. This requires investment in modern IT security solutions and continuous employee training.

Last but not least, costs and resources are a limiting factor. Implementing and maintaining comprehensive security systems is costly. Banks must strike a balance between necessary investment and cost-effectiveness. Independent specialist planning helps identify the most efficient and cost-effective solutions that provide the desired protection without incurring unnecessary expenditure. In addition, ensuring sufficient qualified staff for operating and monitoring the security systems is an ongoing task.

The Role of Independent Specialist Planning in Creating Legally Compliant Concepts

Given the complexity and the high requirements placed on security concepts for banks, commissioning independent specialist planning is of crucial importance. Since 1992, PLANATEL® has offered exactly this expertise as an independent planning and consulting company. Our role is to advise financial institutions on a manufacturer-independent and financially independent basis, in order to develop tailored, legally compliant solutions.

A key advantage of independent specialist planning lies in its objectivity. Because PLANATEL® neither sells nor installs products and receives no commissions from manufacturers, we can select the objectively best systems and technologies for a bank's specific requirements. This avoids dependence on any one manufacturer and ensures that investments are used optimally. We critically evaluate the solutions available on the market and recommend those that offer the highest level of protection and the best cost-effectiveness.

Creating a security concept begins with a detailed as-is survey and needs analysis. This identifies existing systems, processes and potential vulnerabilities. Building on this, we develop a target concept that takes into account all relevant regulatory requirements (BaFin, MaRisk, BAIT, DORA) as well as recognised standards (DIN 14675, VdS 2095, EN 54, DIN VDE 0833). These concepts are not only technically sound but also strategically aligned with the bank's long-term objectives.

PLANATEL® accompanies the entire process from detailed planning through tendering and awarding to implementation support and acceptance. This includes preparing precise specifications of services, evaluating bids and overseeing implementation by certified installers. Our more than 34 years of experience planning fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance systems and access control systems ensures that all aspects of physical and electronic security are optimally coordinated and that legal compliance requirements are met. We also plan maintenance concepts and select certified installers to ensure the long-term operation and servicing of the systems.

Cost-Benefit Analysis and Long-Term Strategy Development

The investment in a comprehensive security concept for banks is considerable, but the potential costs of a security incident (whether through theft, fraud, data loss or reputational damage) generally far exceed this investment. A sound cost-benefit analysis is therefore an integral part of strategic planning. PLANATEL® helps financial institutions strike the right balance between necessary security measures and economic efficiency.

The cost-benefit analysis considers not only the direct acquisition and installation costs of the security systems, but also the long-term operating, maintenance and training costs. At the same time, the potential damage from various threat scenarios is quantified. This includes financial losses, fines for non-compliance with regulatory requirements, the cost of restoring data and systems, and the intangible damage caused by loss of trust among customers and partners. A detailed risk analysis and assessment of the potential for damage make it possible to set priorities and direct investment specifically towards the areas with the highest risk potential.

Long-term strategy development is essential to making a security concept future-proof. Technology and threat situations are constantly evolving. A static security concept is therefore doomed to fail. PLANATEL® helps banks plan a flexible, scalable security architecture that can adapt to new circumstances. This includes taking modularity into account when selecting systems, planning for future expansions, and integrating new technologies without having to renew the entire infrastructure.

Another aspect of the long-term strategy is optimising existing contracts and processes. An independent review of maintenance contracts, service level agreements (SLAs) and procurement processes can often achieve considerable cost savings without compromising security. This also includes analysing the energy consumption of security systems and identifying potential for a more sustainable and cost-efficient mode of operation. Forward-looking planning also takes into account the life cycles of individual components in order to schedule replacement investments in good time and avoid technological obsolescence.

Case Studies and Best Practices for Financial Institutions

The theory of a comprehensive security concept only becomes tangible through practical application. Case studies and best practices help illustrate the challenges and solutions for financial institutions. A typical scenario is the modernisation of an existing bank branch. Here, the task is to assess the existing infrastructure, integrate new regulatory requirements and, at the same time, disrupt ongoing operations as little as possible. In such a case, PLANATEL® would first carry out a detailed as-is analysis of the existing fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance and access control systems. Building on this, a target concept is developed that, for example, provides for migration to IP-based video surveillance with intelligent analytics, the integration of a modern fire alarm system to DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, and the implementation of a central access control system. The challenge lies in ensuring the compatibility of the new systems with the existing installation, or planning a gradual replacement, in order to protect investments and minimise operational disruption.

Another example is planning security for a new data centre for a bank. Data centres are critical infrastructure and require the highest security standards. This involves not only protection against physical intrusion and fire, but also ensuring the power supply (UPS systems, emergency backup power systems) and the redundancy of all security-relevant systems. Planning here includes the detailed design of fire alarm systems for server rooms, the implementation of multi-level access control systems with biometric features, comprehensive video surveillance of interior and exterior areas, and a robust security management system that processes all alarms centrally. Compliance with standards such as DIN VDE 0833 and consideration of KRITIS requirements are of the utmost importance here.

One best practice is the continuous review and adjustment of the security concept. This means that not only is the technology regularly maintained and tested, but also the processes and staff awareness. Regular security audits, penetration tests and emergency drills are essential for uncovering vulnerabilities and training responsiveness for real emergencies. The results of these reviews then feed into optimising the security concept. PLANATEL® supports banks in conducting such audits and developing action plans to ensure continuous improvement of the security situation and to secure legal compliance on a lasting basis.

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PLANATEL®: Independent planning and consulting since 1992
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Frequently Asked Questions

What specific requirements does BaFin place on banks' risk management in the context of security?

BaFin sets out its requirements for banks' risk management in detail in MaRisk. These cover the identification, assessment, management and monitoring of all material risks, including operational risks arising from IT systems and information security. Senior management is responsible for establishing appropriate control and monitoring processes and must define a sustainable IT strategy that sets out the objectives and measures for risk minimisation. Regular risk analyses and internal audits are essential for reviewing and adjusting the effectiveness of these measures.

How does planning fire alarm systems in banks differ from other types of building?

Planning fire alarm systems in banks differs due to the heightened protection objectives for sensitive data and high-value assets, as well as the stricter regulatory requirements. In addition to complying with DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, specific risks such as sabotage or robbery must be taken into account, which require closer integration with other security systems. The alarm organisation must also take into account the particularities of bank operations, such as protecting vaults and server rooms, and enable a rapid but controlled evacuation. Documentation and coordination with the fire brigade must be designed in particular detail given the criticality involved.

What significance does physical security have for banks in the age of digitalisation?

Despite increasing digitalisation, physical security remains of fundamental importance for banks. It protects not only against traditional threats such as robbery and theft, but also against sabotage of critical IT infrastructure such as data centres. A physical security breach can have far-reaching effects on the availability of IT systems and the integrity of data. Physical protection measures such as access control, video surveillance and perimeter protection must therefore be closely interlinked with cybersecurity measures in order to ensure comprehensive protection and strengthen the resilience of the financial institution.

How can a bank ensure that its security concept remains up to date and effective in the long term?

Ensuring the long-term currency and effectiveness of a security concept requires a continuous process of review and adjustment. This includes regular risk and threat analyses, taking new technologies and regulatory changes (e.g. DORA) into account, and conducting audits and emergency drills. Ongoing employee training and awareness-raising are also essential. Independent specialist planning can support this by regularly putting the concept to the test, identifying potential for optimisation, and advising on the implementation of necessary adjustments in order to secure legal compliance and protection on a lasting basis.

What role does the selection of certified installers play in implementing security concepts in banks?

Selecting certified installers is of crucial importance when implementing security concepts in banks. For fire alarm systems in particular, certification to DIN 14675-2 is mandatory for specialist firms. This ensures that the installation and commissioning of the systems is carried out to the highest quality standards and in accordance with applicable norms. Certified installers have the necessary expertise and experience to correctly implement complex security systems and ensure their functionality in an emergency. Independent specialist planning firms such as PLANATEL® support banks in selecting and commissioning such qualified partners, to secure the quality and legal compliance of the implementation.

The security of banks in Germany is primarily governed by the Kreditwesengesetz (KWG). This is given concrete form by BaFin's Minimum Requirements for Risk Management (MaRisk) and Supervisory Requirements for IT in Financial Institutions (BAIT). In future, the EU's Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) will play a central role.

What are the core contents of the BAIT for financial institutions?

The BAIT define detailed requirements for IT governance, information risk management, information security, IT contingency management and the management of IT outsourcing. They aim to ensure secure information processing and information technology in banks.

Why is independent specialist planning important for security concepts in banks?

Independent specialist planning ensures a manufacturer-independent and objective selection of the best security systems, without dependence on any one manufacturer. It secures compliance with all regulatory requirements and standards, and optimises investment through a sound cost-benefit analysis.

What role do DIN 14675 and VdS 2095 play for fire alarm systems in banks?

DIN 14675 governs the structure and operation of fire alarm systems and is decisive for connection to the fire brigade. VdS 2095 supplements this with insurance-related requirements and is often required contractually, to ensure a high degree of operational reliability.

Sources and Further Information