A security review at a financial institution comprises the systematic analysis and assessment of all relevant physical, technical and organisational security measures. The aim is to identify weaknesses, minimise risks and ensure legal compliance with requirements such as MaRisk, BAIT and DORA, in order to safeguard the institution's operational resilience.

How independent planning strengthens physical and technical security in the financial sector

A comprehensive security review is essential to meet regulatory requirements and protect assets and reputation. Independent planning creates the necessary transparency and efficiency here.

Key Takeaways

  • Holistic security concepts are essential for financial institutions, as they must integrate physical, technical and organisational measures to meet the complex threat landscape and strict regulatory requirements.
  • Compliance with MaRisk, BAIT and the new DORA regulation is mandatory. An independent security review helps ensure legal compliance and plan for risks proactively.
  • Manufacturer-independent planning and consulting, as offered by PLANATEL®, ensures objective, tailored and future-proof security solutions optimally matched to the specific needs and risk profile of the financial institution.

In the dynamic landscape of the financial sector, financial institutions face a wide range of threats every day – from cyberattacks to physical break-ins. Ensuring robust security is not merely a question of trust and reputation protection, but an absolute necessity underpinned by strict regulatory requirements. A sound security review is therefore not an optional undertaking but a strategic imperative, in order to secure operational resilience and ensure the integrity of business operations. This requires a holistic view that integrates every facet of security.

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The need for a comprehensive security review at financial institutions

Owing to their role in the economic system and the sensitivity of the data and assets they manage, financial institutions are particularly attractive targets for criminal activity. The threat landscape is evolving rapidly, meaning traditional security approaches are often no longer sufficient. A comprehensive security review goes beyond merely securing IT systems and considers the entire spectrum of potential risks. These include physical threats such as break-ins and vandalism, technical failures of critical infrastructure, and organisational weaknesses that can arise from human error or inadequate processes. The consequences of a security incident can be devastating: financial losses, reputational damage, loss of trust among customers and partners, and severe penalties from supervisory authorities. It is therefore essential for the boards and management of financial institutions to act proactively and regularly put the security architecture to the test. This creates not only a secure operating environment but also strengthens stakeholder trust and secures long-term competitiveness. The complexity of bank security requires a holistic approach, in order to effectively counter risks such as theft, break-ins and attacks on ATMs.

Regulatory framework and the role of BaFin

The financial sector in Germany, Austria and Switzerland is subject to some of the strictest regulation in the world. For German financial institutions, the requirements of the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin, Federal Financial Supervisory Authority) are particularly relevant. These include the Minimum Requirements for Risk Management (MaRisk) and the Supervisory Requirements for IT in Financial Institutions (BAIT). The BAIT, first published in 2017 and most recently revised in August 2021, give concrete form to the statutory requirements of Section 25a(1) KWG and set out a flexible framework for the technical and organisational resourcing of institutions, particularly for managing IT resources, information risk management and information security management. Since 17 January 2025, EU Regulation 2022/2554, better known as the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), has also applied directly in Germany. DORA sets out comprehensive requirements for digital operational resilience across the entire financial sector, including ICT risk management, reporting of major ICT incidents, and ICT third-party risk management. Against this background, BaFin repealed the ZAIT, VAIT and KAIT with effect from 16 January 2025, in order to avoid duplicate regulation, although the BAIT remain applicable to certain institutions until 1 January 2027. These dynamic regulatory requirements demand continuous adjustment and review of security concepts, in order to guarantee legal compliance at all times.

Holistic security concepts: integrating physical and technical systems

An effective security strategy for financial institutions requires the seamless integration of various security systems. It is not enough to consider individual components in isolation; rather, physical and technical measures must work together within a coherent security management system. These include fire alarm systems (BMA) to DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, intrusion detection systems (EMA) and hold-up alarm systems to DIN VDE 0833-3, video surveillance systems (VÜA) to VdS 2366, access control systems and evacuation systems (SAA) to DIN VDE 0833-4. DIN VDE 0833-1 describes general requirements for the planning, installation and operation of hazard alarm systems for fire, break-in and hold-up. VdS 2095, a guideline for automatic fire alarm systems, describes everything necessary for their planning and installation, and is often required by building insurers. An integrated security management system makes it possible to centrally capture and assess all alerts and events, and to initiate appropriate measures automatically or manually. This significantly increases response speed in an emergency and minimises potential damage. Planning such systems must take into account the specific risk profile of the financial institution, from securing sensitive data rooms to monitoring ATMs and branches. Physically securing buildings and rooms is a central area of action here, as BaFin also requires in Chapter 4 of the BAIT on information security management.

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The process of an independent security review and planning

An independent security review and the planning built upon it are crucial to the effectiveness of the security architecture of a financial institution. The process begins with a detailed as-is survey, in which all existing systems, processes and organisational structures are captured and assessed. This is followed by a comprehensive needs analysis that takes into account both current threats and future developments. Here, the specific requirements of the financial institution, the regulatory requirements (MaRisk, BAIT, DORA) and industry-specific standards (DIN, VdS, EN) serve as the basis. Based on these findings, a target concept is developed proposing tailored solutions for the identified weaknesses and risks. This includes the planning of new fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance systems or access control solutions. A critical step is the manufacturer-independent tendering and awarding of the planned systems. Here, it is of the utmost importance that the selection of installers and products is based exclusively on objective criteria such as technical suitability, quality and cost-effectiveness, in order to avoid dependency on manufacturers. PLANATEL® accompanies this entire process, from the initial analysis to supporting implementation and acceptance, to ensure that the planned measures are optimally implemented and the targeted level of security is achieved.

Challenges and common mistakes in security planning

Specific challenges and mistakes that can impair the effectiveness of the systems frequently arise when planning and implementing security measures at financial institutions. One of the most serious mistakes is inadequate integration of the various security layers. Physical security, fire alarm systems and IT security are often considered and planned as separate silos, rather than being understood as parts of a coherent security management system. This leads to redundancies, gaps in monitoring and inefficient processes in an emergency. Another common mistake is dependency on a manufacturer. When financial institutions tie themselves too closely to a particular manufacturer, this can limit flexibility for future extensions or modernisation and lead to higher costs. Selecting systems that do not comply with current standards and guidelines also poses a significant risk. For example, fire alarm systems must meet the requirements of DIN 14675 and VdS 2095, while hazard alarm systems must comply with DIN VDE 0833. Inadequate documentation of security concepts and processes also makes regular reviews by internal and external auditors more difficult and can lead to findings during an audit. The complexity of the subject requires specialist knowledge that is often not sufficiently available in-house, underlining the need for independent external consulting.

The importance of fire alarm systems (BMA) and evacuation systems in financial institutions

Within the holistic security architecture of financial institutions, fire alarm systems (BMA) and evacuation systems (SAA) play an outstanding role. A fire can not only cause immense material damage but also result in the loss of sensitive data and, in the worst case, human lives. Planning of BMA must therefore meet the highest standards and take into account the specific circumstances of the financial institution. This includes compliance with DIN 14675 for the setup and operation of fire alarm systems, and VdS 2095 for their planning and installation. VdS 2095 describes in detail how BMAs are to be planned and installed, in order to alert the fire brigade in the event of a fire, initiate evacuations, or control other fire-protection functions. In addition, DIN VDE 0833-4 regulates the requirements for voice alarm systems, which enable structured evacuations in an emergency. Precise planning takes into account the building structure, the use of the premises, the type of assets stored, and the number of people present. Modern BMA systems are able to detect fires at an early stage and minimise false alarms through intelligent sensor technology. Integrating BMA and SAA into an overarching security management system is crucial to ensuring a coordinated response in an emergency and maximising the safety of employees and customers. PLANATEL® plans maintenance concepts and selects certified installers, to secure the long-term functionality of these critical systems.

Future-proofing through integrated, scalable security concepts

Security requirements for financial institutions are not static but continue to evolve. To remain future-proof, security concepts must be integrated and scalable. This means that new technologies and threats can be flexibly integrated into the existing security architecture without requiring fundamental system changes. An integrated security management system (GMS) forms the basis here, bringing together all relevant security systems – from fire alarm systems to access control and video surveillance – on a central platform. This enables holistic monitoring and control, optimises response times, and reduces administrative overhead. Scalability is crucial for responding to growth, new branches or changing business processes. Planning must factor in extension possibilities from the outset and be based on open standards, in order to avoid dependency on manufacturers. In addition, regular review and adaptation of security concepts to new regulatory requirements, such as the ongoing implementation of DORA, is essential. The EBA guidelines on ICT and security risk management, which BaFin has implemented in the BAIT, emphasise the need for robust risk management frameworks and greater operational resilience. A future-proof security concept is thus a living document, continuously evaluated and further developed, in order to meet changing requirements and secure the financial institution's digital operational resilience in the long term.

PLANATEL®: your independent partner for security reviews and planning

The complexity of security requirements at financial institutions calls for a partner with not only in-depth technical expertise but also comprehensive knowledge of the regulatory framework. Since 1992 – over 34 years – PLANATEL® has offered, as an independent planning and consulting company, exactly this expertise. Our core competence lies in the manufacturer-independent planning and optimisation of complex infrastructure, including fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance systems, access control and security management systems. We operate 100% independently and receive no commissions of any kind from manufacturers or installers, which guarantees objective consulting geared exclusively to your interests. Our approach begins with a sound as-is survey and needs analysis, followed by a detailed target concept and the preparation of precise tender documents. We accompany you through the entire award process, support implementation, and carry out acceptance procedures as well as invoice reviews. The aim is to develop tailored, legally compliant, future-proof security solutions that sustainably strengthen your financial institution's operational resilience. With PLANATEL®, you gain an experienced partner who guides you through the jungle of standards and guidelines and ensures that your investments in security work optimally.

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Next step

Contact us for a no-obligation initial consultation.

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

Frequently asked questions

What is meant by a holistic security review for financial institutions?

A holistic security review considers every aspect of a financial institution's security. This includes analysing physical security (building access, surveillance), technical security (fire alarm systems, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance, access control, security management systems) and organisational security (processes, contingency plans, training). The aim is to develop an integrated concept that addresses all potential weaknesses and comprehensively strengthens the institution's operational resilience. It is about not merely minimising individual risks, but creating a robust overall system.

How does PLANATEL® support financial institutions in meeting regulatory requirements?

PLANATEL® supports financial institutions through independent planning and consulting in meeting complex regulatory requirements such as MaRisk, BAIT and DORA. We analyse existing systems and processes against current requirements, identify gaps, and develop tailored concepts to close them. Our expertise ensures that the planned security solutions are not only technically optimal but also fully legally compliant, which is decisive during audits and reviews by supervisory authorities.

What advantages does independent consulting offer for security planning?

Independent consulting, as offered by PLANATEL®, ensures an objective assessment and planning of security systems free of conflicts of interest. Because we receive no commissions from manufacturers, we can select the best solutions, tailored precisely to the needs of the financial institution. This leads to more efficient, more cost-effective and more future-proof systems free from dependency on manufacturers. In addition, our clients benefit from over 34 years of experience and in-depth industry expertise.

What are the core components of an integrated security management system (GMS) for banks?

An integrated security management system (GMS) for banks typically comprises fire alarm systems (BMA), intrusion detection systems (EMA), video surveillance systems (VÜA), access control systems and voice alarm systems (SAA). These components are networked via a central platform to capture and analyse events and trigger coordinated responses. A GMS improves oversight, speeds up decision-making in an emergency, and optimises resource use by enabling a holistic security strategy and ensuring the interoperability of the systems.

Why is the regular review and adjustment of security concepts so important?

The threat landscape and regulatory requirements in the financial sector are subject to constant change. New cyber threats, technological developments and updated regulations such as DORA require continuous adaptation of security concepts. Regular reviews ensure that the implemented measures remain effective, that weaknesses are identified and addressed at an early stage, and that the financial institution always operates in a legally compliant manner. This is crucial for safeguarding operational resilience in the long term and maximising the security of data, assets and personnel.

What role does the BAIT play in the security review of financial institutions?

The BAIT (Supervisory Requirements for IT in Financial Institutions) issued by BaFin give concrete form to the statutory requirements for risk management and IT security at financial institutions. They set out a framework for managing IT resources, information risk management and information security management. A security review must examine and document compliance with these requirements in detail, in order to ensure legal compliance.

How does DORA influence financial institutions' security strategy?

The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is an EU regulation that, since January 2025, has set out comprehensive requirements for digital operational resilience in the financial sector. DORA covers ICT risk management, reporting of ICT incidents, testing of digital operational resilience, and ICT third-party risk management. Financial institutions must adapt their security strategies to these new, far-reaching requirements, in order to secure operational stability.

Why is manufacturer-independence important when planning security systems?

Manufacturer-independence in planning security systems is crucial to ensuring objective, needs-based solutions. Without ties to particular providers, the best products and technologies can be selected, optimally tailored to the specific requirements of the financial institution. This avoids unnecessary costs, increases flexibility for future adjustments, and reduces the risk of dependency on manufacturers.

Which DIN and VdS standards are relevant for fire alarm systems in financial institutions?

For fire alarm systems (BMA) in financial institutions, DIN 14675 for setup and operation and VdS 2095 for planning and installation are primarily relevant. DIN VDE 0833-1 and DIN VDE 0833-2 set out general requirements and specific provisions for fire alarm systems. These standards and guidelines ensure that the BMA functions reliably and meets high safety requirements.

Sources and further information