DORA

What is the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA)?

The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) marks a fundamental shift in the European Union’s approach to digital operational resilience in the financial sector. Since January 17, 2025, DORA requires the implementation of security requirements that go beyond traditional cybersecurity measures. The regulation aims to ensure that financial institutions remain resilient even during severe operational disruptions by establishing uniform requirements for the security of network and information systems.

DORA’s scope extends across the entire financial services landscape, from traditional banks and insurance companies to new FinTech providers and critical ICT third-party providers. The regulation introduces a principles-based approach to operational resilience, requiring organizations to implement robust ICT risk management frameworks, incident reporting mechanisms, and regular testing of digital operational resilience.

At SCHUTZWERK, we understand that DORA compliance requires a holistic approach that combines technical expertise with deep knowledge of financial sector requirements. Our team of security experts provides comprehensive support in implementing the five DORA pillars: ICT risk management, incident reporting, digital operational resilience testing, third-party risk management, and information sharing. We help financial institutions not only achieve compliance but also build genuine operational resilience to protect their business and customers.

Comprehensive DORA Framework

The Digital Operational Resilience Act introduces a comprehensive framework based on five core pillars, each aimed at increasing the financial sector’s resilience against digital disruptions. These pillars form an interconnected approach to operational resilience, ensuring that financial institutions can maintain critical services even under severe stress conditions.

ICT Risk Management

Financial institutions must implement a robust ICT risk management framework that encompasses all aspects of their digital operations. This includes systematic risk identification, assessment, and mitigation strategies. We help organizations develop comprehensive risk management processes that align with DORA requirements while supporting business objectives. We assist in creating detailed risk assessments, establishing monitoring mechanisms, and implementing effective control measures.

Incident Reporting and Response

DORA prescribes structured incident reporting and response procedures to ensure that ICT-related as well as operational and payment-related incidents are handled quickly and effectively. We help organizations establish efficient incident management processes , including incident classification systems, reporting templates, and escalation procedures. Our expertise ensures that your incident response capabilities meet both regulatory requirements and operational needs.

Digital Operational Resilience Testing

A key aspect of DORA is the requirement for threat-led penetration testing (TLPT). These tests build upon the established TIBER-DE framework (Threat Intelligence-based Ethical Red Teaming) that has been in place in Germany since 2020. While DORA applies to almost all financial companies, TLPTs are mandatory only for selected institutions identified by BaFin based on specific criteria.

The TLPT process is structured in three main phases:

• Preparation Phase: Selection of specialized providers for threat intelligence and red team testing
• Testing Phase: 18-week execution with 12 weeks of active attack simulation
• Closing Phase: Comprehensive evaluation with replay and purple team workshops

The tests are conducted under the supervision of the Deutsche Bundesbank, which oversees the entire process and attests to its compliant execution. Particularly important is the separation between threat intelligence team and red team to ensure independent and objective assessment.

Third-Party Risk Management

Management of ICT third-party risks is crucial under DORA. We support organizations in developing comprehensive third-party risk management frameworks, including assessment methodologies, monitoring procedures, and contingency planning. Our approach ensures effective oversight of critical service providers while maintaining operational efficiency.

Information Sharing

DORA promotes information sharing as a key element in building sector-wide resilience. We help organizations establish effective information sharing mechanisms that comply with regulatory requirements while protecting sensitive data. We use our expertise to support the establishment of suitable communication channels and the development of information classification systems.

Implementation Approach

Our approach to DORA implementation combines technical expertise with practical experience in the financial sector. We work closely with your team to:

1. Assess your current operational resilience capabilities against DORA requirements
2. Develop a tailored implementation roadmap
3. Support the implementation of required measures and controls
4. Provide ongoing guidance and support for maintaining compliance
   
   

Benefits of Working with SCHUTZWERK

When partnering with SCHUTZWERK for DORA compliance, you benefit from:

• Deep understanding of both technical security requirements and financial sector regulations
• Practical experience in implementing resilience measures in financial institutions
• Comprehensive testing and assessment capabilities
• Ongoing support and guidance throughout your compliance journey
• Independent and objective security expertise

Our goal is to help you not only achieve DORA compliance but also build lasting operational resilience that supports your business objectives and protects your stakeholders.