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RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

India (Reserve Bank of India)
vRBI (Commercial Banks - Cybersecurity, Technology: Risk, Resilience and Assurance Framework) Directions, 2026 (31 July 2026), repealing the Cyber Security Framework in Banks circular of 2 June 2016 and the IT Governance Master Direction of 7 November 2023
16 domains
216 controls

The Reserve Bank of India's 2026 Directions on cybersecurity, technology risk, resilience and assurance for commercial banks, which replaced the 2016 Cyber Security Framework in Banks and the 2023 IT governance Master Direction: Board and committee governance (IT Strategy Committee, Information Security Committee, an independent CISO reporting to risk), IT and cyber risk management, some 160 baseline controls from asset inventory to DMARC, VA/PT and half-yearly full-day DR switchovers, third-party and ATM switch provider controls, incident reporting on DAKSH within six hours, a Cyber Security Operations Centre and IS audit.

Verified

RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks is a compliance framework from India (Reserve Bank of India) with 16 domains and 216 controls. The largest domains are Chapter V L to P: access control, teleworking, customer authentication, mail and removable media – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks (22 controls), Chapter V R to X: cryptography, straight through processing, surveillance, threat defence, anti-phishing and VA/PT – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks (22 controls), Chapter V A to G: assets, data leakage, migration, software, physical, capacity and configuration – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks (21 controls). Every control below carries what it requires and what an assessor expects to see.

Maintained by Gerard BlokdykVerified against the published standard Control text last updated

Framework summaries on this platform are interpretations grounded in the published source, for educational and compliance planning purposes. They do not reproduce or replace the official standards. Refer to the authoritative source for the definitive text. Framework names and trademarks belong to their respective organisations.

Framework Domains (16)

Chapter III C to G: IT Strategy Committee, senior management, committees, Head of IT and CISO – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

13 controls
Controls in the Chapter III C to G: IT Strategy Committee, senior management, committees, Head of IT and CISO – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 13 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::16Para 16: Board-level IT Strategy Committee
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::17Para 17: ITSC composition: three directors, independent IT-expert chair, competent members
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::18Para 18: ITSC meets at least quarterly
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::19Para 19: ITSC functions: planning, strategy, governance, risk, budget, escalation, BCP/DR, capacity, access standards
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::20Para 20: senior management duties for IT and cyber
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::21Para 21: IT Steering Committee meeting at least quarterly
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::22Para 22: IT Steering Committee responsibilities
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::23Para 23: Information Security Committee under ITSC oversight, headed from risk management
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::24Para 24: appoint a senior, competent Head of IT Function
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::25Para 25: Head of IT responsibilities: alignment, organisation, DR and BCP
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::26Para 26: Head of IT as first line of defence over IT controls and risk
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::27Para 27: senior, independent CISO with expertise, tenure, staff and budget
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::28Para 28: documented CISO role: strategy, enforcement, committee invitee, SOC, reporting to risk ED, quarterly review

Chapter III H to J: IT projects, architecture and IT service management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

10 controls
Controls in the Chapter III H to J: IT projects, architecture and IT service management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 10 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::29Para 29: defined project management approach for IT projects
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::30Para 30: enterprise architecture methodology for new technology or stack revamp
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::31Para 31: new technology adoption within risk appetite and aligned to strategy
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::32Para 32: product approval and quality assurance for new IT applications
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::33Para 33: IT architecture designed for security, reviewed annually by the ITSC
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::34Para 34: IT service management framework for operational resilience including DR sites
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::35Para 35: service level management with segregation of duties
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::36Para 36: security classification of information assets by criticality
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::37Para 37: avoid outdated and unsupported hardware and software; track EOS and AMC dates
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::38Para 38: technology refresh plan before end of support

Chapter IV: IT and information security risk management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

8 controls
Controls in the Chapter IV: IT and information security risk management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 8 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::39Para 39: risk policy covers IT and cyber risk, reviewed annually by RMCB with ITSC
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::40Para 40: IT and information security risk management framework
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::41Para 41: asset risk assessment guided by security standards or control frameworks
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::42Para 42: staff and service providers comply with security and acceptable-use policies
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::43Para 43: annual review of security infrastructure and policies; tackle phishing and spoofing
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::44Para 44: inherent risk factors reckoned
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::45Para 45: riskiness categorised low to very high including business component riskiness
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::46Para 46: control evaluation factors including threat intelligence and information sharing

Chapter V A to G: assets, data leakage, migration, software, physical, capacity and configuration – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

21 controls
Controls in the Chapter V A to G: assets, data leakage, migration, software, physical, capacity and configuration – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 21 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::47Para 47: up-to-date inventory of information assets with business criticality
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::48Para 48: classify data by sensitivity
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::49Para 49: enterprise data dictionary
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::50Para 50: protect data inside and outside the network according to sensitivity
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::51Para 51: comprehensive data loss or leakage prevention strategy
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::52Para 52: similar data leakage arrangements at vendor-managed facilities
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::53Para 53: protect customers' data across its lifecycle including with vendors
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::54Para 54: remote manage, wipe and lock mobile devices and laptops
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::55Para 55: data migration policy with integrity checks, audit trails and sign-offs
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::56Para 56: inventory of authorised and unauthorised software; optional whitelisting
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::57Para 57: control software installation and block unauthorised software
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::58Para 58: monitor patches and advisories; expedite patches for actively exploited flaws
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::59Para 59: exception policy with justification, duration, approval and senior review
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::60Para 60: physical and environmental controls for DC and DR sites
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::61Para 61: monitoring of environmental control breaches and access logs
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::62Para 62: geographically separated DC and DR
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::63Para 63: e-surveillance at DC and DR
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::64Para 64: systems and infrastructure support business functions and all channels
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::65Para 65: annual proactive IT capacity assessment and planning
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::66Para 66: documented security baselines for all device categories through the lifecycle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::67Para 67: periodic review of critical devices' configurations and patch levels everywhere

Chapter V AA to EE: metrics, awareness, customer education, transaction monitoring and forensics – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

18 controls
Controls in the Chapter V AA to EE: metrics, awareness, customer education, transaction monitoring and forensics – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 18 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::194Para 194: comprehensive cyber metrics with KPIs and KRIs
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::195Para 195: performance, recovery and resumption metrics including RPO and RTO
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::196Para 196: scorecard for IT performance and maturity
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::197Para 197: indicators for adequacy of and adherence to the cyber framework
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::198Para 198: promote cyber resilience objectives to providers and partners and require aligned action
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::199Para 199: communicate security policies and acceptable use to users, vendors and partners
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::200Para 200: targeted training for key executive, operational and security administration roles
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::201Para 201: encourage reporting of suspicious behaviour
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::202Para 202: periodic evaluation of employee awareness
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::203Para 203: continuous capacity building; mandatory for new recruits; annual for lower and middle management
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::204Para 204: Board and senior management sensitised; annual IT and cyber training for all Board members and senior management
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::205Para 205: improve and maintain customer cyber awareness
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::206Para 206: encourage customers to report phishing and act on reports
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::207Para 207: educate customers not to share credentials, OTPs and PINs
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::208Para 208: promote cyber resilience objectives among customers
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::209Para 209: risk-based transaction monitoring across all channels
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::210Para 210: alternate-channel alerts for payments above a customer-set value
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::211Para 211: network forensics, investigation and DDoS mitigation on standby

Chapter V H: network management and security – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

11 controls
Controls in the Chapter V H: network management and security – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 11 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::68Para 68: only authorised, time-limited, audited network access; responsibility with bank officials
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::69Para 69: up-to-date organisation-wide network architecture diagram
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::70Para 70: centralised inventory of authorised network devices
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::71Para 71: network devices configured appropriately and assessed periodically
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::72Para 72: secure wireless networks and access points
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::73Para 73: connect only authorised devices meeting security requirements
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::74Para 74: automatically detect and block unauthorised device connections
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::75Para 75: detect and remedy unusual activity on systems, servers, network devices and endpoints
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::76Para 76: SOPs for all major IT activities
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::77Para 77: multi-layer boundary defences with real-time traffic filtering
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::78Para 78: public-facing IT infrastructure handles IPv6

Chapter V I: application security life cycle – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

13 controls
Controls in the Chapter V I: application security life cycle – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 13 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::79Para 79: security across all stages of the application life cycle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::80Para 80: secure coding for internal and collaborative development
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::81Para 81: security requirements specified from the start
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::82Para 82: segregated development, test and production environments
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::83Para 83: threat modelling, secure coding, standards-aligned testing and secure deployment
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::84Para 84: address vulnerabilities per OWASP and defence in depth
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::85Para 85: application security assessments beyond the OWASP top 10
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::86Para 86: periodic application security testing across the lifecycle in production-like environments
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::87Para 87: containerised business apps on mobile devices with remote wipe
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::88Para 88: new technologies evaluated before use on critical systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::89Para 89: vendor maintenance and support enforced by agreement
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::90Para 90: source code or escrow for critical applications
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::92Para 92: vendor certificate that code is free of known vulnerabilities, malware and covert channels

Chapter V J and K: audit logs, patch, vulnerability and change management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

11 controls
Controls in the Chapter V J and K: audit logs, patch, vulnerability and change management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 11 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::100Para 100: track patch status for internet-connected endpoints and servers, databases, middleware
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::101Para 101: configuration management and baselines for change integrity
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::102Para 102: root cause of detected incidents and patching to close them
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::103Para 103: periodic evaluation of access devices at VLAN, LAN/WAN, external and partner interconnections
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::93Para 93: audit logging for systems touching critical or sensitive information
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::94Para 94: log settings capture identifying fields and are validated periodically
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::95Para 95: audit trails detailed enough for audit, forensics and non-repudiation
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::96Para 96: regular monitoring of audit trails and logs
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::97Para 97: stakeholders consulted on log scope, frequency and storage
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::98Para 98: change and patch policy: impact assessment, timely approved changes, justification, rollback
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::99Para 99: risk-based patching strategy with an inventory of patchable components

Chapter V L to P: access control, teleworking, customer authentication, mail and removable media – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

22 controls
Controls in the Chapter V L to P: access control, teleworking, customer authentication, mail and removable media – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 22 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::104Para 104: access only for a valid business need
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::105Para 105: supervise, log and review elevated access
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::106Para 106: secure access with data at rest and in transit protected
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::107Para 107: protect credentials, tokens and access profiles against leakage and attack
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::108Para 108: no local admin rights on end-user devices except time-bound need
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::109Para 109: centralised authentication and authorisation with strong passwords, least privilege and SoD
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::110Para 110: risk-based two-factor or multi-factor authentication; mandatory MFA for privileged users of critical systems and activities
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::111Para 111: centralised management, logging and monitoring of privileged access to critical systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::112Para 112: limit invalid logons and deactivate dormant accounts
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::113Para 113: monitor abnormal logon patterns
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::114Para 114: teleworking: secure remote access, MFA, remote device identification, data protection
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::115Para 115: customer authentication framework with mutual verification across channels
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::116Para 116: bank as identity provider for customer access to partner systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::117Para 117: secure mail and messaging: anti-spoofing, look-alike domains, malicious content, spam; partners too
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::118Para 118: email server specific controls documented and implemented
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::119Para 119: restrict permissible email attachment types
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::120Para 120: DMARC for email domains; urge third parties to adopt it
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::121Para 121: removable media prohibited unless authorised for defined use and duration
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::122Para 122: removable media and BYOD policy with secure erasure
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::123Para 123: limit media types and information transferable
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::124Para 124: scan removable media before access
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::125Para 125: consider centralised removable media policies via directory or endpoint tools

Chapter V Q: third-party arrangements and ATM switch service providers – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

14 controls
Controls in the Chapter V Q: third-party arrangements and ATM switch service providers – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 14 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::126Para 126: vendor risk assessment and proportionate controls
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::127Para 127: bank accountable for security risk in outsourced and partner arrangements
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::128Para 128: evaluate need to outsource critical processes; select on risk assessment
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::129Para 129: regular due diligence, oversight and management of vendors and partners
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::130Para 130: policies to evaluate, approve and monitor vendor risk and materiality
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::131Para 131: service providers adhere to Indian legal and regulatory requirements
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::132Para 132: agreements with audit right for the bank and inspection right for RBI
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::133Para 133: RBI access to all information resources consumed by the bank
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::134Para 134: legal requirements on infrastructure location and cross-border data movement
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::135Para 135: vet vendor personnel; background checks, NDAs and security compliance agreements
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::136Para 136: cyber controls enforced on ATM switch application service providers
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::137Para 137: ATM switch ASP controls written into contracts and scoped to the IT ecosystem
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::138Para 138: 24 baseline cyber controls mandated in ASP contracts
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::139Para 139: share applicable RBI instructions with ATM switch ASPs

Chapter V R to X: cryptography, straight through processing, surveillance, threat defence, anti-phishing and VA/PT – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

22 controls
Controls in the Chapter V R to X: cryptography, straight through processing, surveillance, threat defence, anti-phishing and VA/PT – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 22 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::140Para 140: strong, non-deprecated cryptography compliant with law
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::141Para 141: no manual intervention in data between processes for critical applications
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::142Para 142: tested, automated, authenticated STP interfaces with audit trails
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::143Para 143: set up a CSOC for continuous surveillance
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::144Para 144: multi-point defence against malicious code
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::145Para 145: anti-malware with behavioural detection everywhere, centrally managed
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::146Para 146: whitelist internet websites and systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::147Para 147: consider secure web gateways with HTTPS deep inspection
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::148Para 148: anti-phishing and anti-rogue app takedown services
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::149Para 149: periodic VA and PT for all critical and internet-facing systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::150Para 150: VA/PT of critical internet-facing applications, servers and network across the lifecycle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::151Para 151: VA every six months and PT every 12 months for critical and DMZ customer-facing systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::152Para 152: post-implementation VA/PT on production, or documented ISC-approved deviation
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::153Para 153: fix vulnerabilities on time and keep them fixed
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::154Para 154: documented VA/PT approach including scoring, also for cloud-hosted systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::155Para 155: VA/PT by trained, independent experts
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::156Para 156: control over audit methodology and auditor competence when engaging VA/PT auditors
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::157Para 157: reasonable assurance per area stated in VA/PT reports
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::158Para 158: ongoing review of VA/PT auditor performance including missed vulnerabilities
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::159Para 159: interact with auditors; follow CERT-In audit policy guidelines for empanelled auditors
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::160Para 160: close monitoring of VA/PT findings by security, IS audit and senior management
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::161Para 161: quarterly VA/PT closure status to the ITSC and ISC

Chapter V Y: business continuity and disaster recovery – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

12 controls
Controls in the Chapter V Y: business continuity and disaster recovery – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 12 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::163Para 163: BCP and DR policy on best practice such as ISO 22301, updated on major developments
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::164Para 164: BCP and DR designed for rapid, secure recovery after cyber-attacks within RTOs
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::165Para 165: DR drills half-yearly for critical systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::166Para 166: major DR drill issues fixed and retested before next cycle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::167Para 167: DR testing runs DR as primary for at least a full working day
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::168Para 168: test BCP and DR under different contingency scenarios
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::169Para 169: backups taken, restore-tested, integrity preserved and secured
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::170Para 170: DR architecture and procedures meet defined RTO and RPO
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::171Para 171: minimal ITSC-approved RTO and near zero RPO for critical systems
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::172Para 172: documented reconciliation where RPO is not zero
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::173Para 173: identical configurations and patches at DC and DR
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::174Para 174: BCP/DR on interconnected vendor and partner systems with collaborative testing

Chapter V Z: cyber incident response, recovery and crisis management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

18 controls
Controls in the Chapter V Z: cyber incident response, recovery and crisis management – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 18 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::175Para 175: incident response and recovery policy with eight elements
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::176Para 176: specialised training for incident handlers
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::177Para 177: response plans for varied scenarios with stakeholder coordination
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::178Para 178: lessons learned fed into response plans
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::179Para 179: documented strategies for ransomware, data destruction and DDoS
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::180Para 180: contain attacks by shielding and quarantine
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::181Para 181: analyse incidents for severity, impact and root cause; corrective and preventive measures
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::182Para 182: report cyber incidents on DAKSH within six hours; notify CERT-In
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::183Para 183: escalation and reporting plans to Board, senior management and customers
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::185Para 185: external coordination and threat intelligence integration
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::186Para 186: lawful systems to collect and share threat information
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::187Para 187: improve response and recovery through lessons from incidents, tests and drills
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::188Para 188: participate in CERT-In and IDRBT cyber drills
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::189Para 189: resilient interconnected systems with collaborative testing and capacity
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::190Para 190: crisis communication tested through drills with customers and providers
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::191Para 191: SOC, incident response and forensics aligned to cut downtime
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::192Para 192: documented Cyber Crisis Management Plan within the Board framework
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::193Para 193: CCMP covers detection, containment, response and recovery for a wide threat set

Chapter VI: Cyber Security Operations Centre – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

12 controls
Controls in the Chapter VI: Cyber Security Operations Centre – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 12 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::212Para 212: CSOC framework proportionate to risk, scale and obligations
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::213Para 213: CSOC governance: Board and management briefing, dashboards, metrics and reporting
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::214Para 214: proactive monitoring with tools for detection, response and analytics
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::215Para 215: log collection, storage, SIEM correlation, dashboard monitoring and alerting
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::216Para 216: CSOC systems: root cause, classification, investigation, behaviour analysis, IoCs, analytics, honeypots
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::217Para 217: CSOC responsibilities across protect, detect, respond and recover
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::218Para 218: security analytics engine with timely processing and deep packet inspection
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::219Para 219: malware detection and analysis and forensic imaging tools
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::220Para 220: CSOC architecture scalable, highly available and capable across six outcomes
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::221Para 221: CSOC staffing across Level 1, 2 and 3
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::222Para 222: differentiated hiring, management and retention for CSOC staff
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::223Para 223: 24x7 staffing model, training, incentives, SOC metrics and capacity planning

Chapter VII: Information systems audit – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

5 controls
Controls in the Chapter VII: Information systems audit – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 5 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::224Para 224: Audit Committee oversees IS audit
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::225Para 225: ACB-approved IS audit policy reviewed annually
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::226Para 226: ACB reviews critical IT and cyber issues and directs management
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::227Para 227: separate, competent IS audit function; accountability for external IS audits retained
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::228Para 228: risk-based IS audit planning

Chapters II and III A to B: Board, IT governance framework and security policies – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks

6 controls
Controls in the Chapters II and III A to B: Board, IT governance framework and security policies – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks domain of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks: 6 controls
CodeTitle
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::12Para 12: IT governance framework on the five focus areas
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::13Para 13: enterprise or operational risk policy assesses IT risks periodically
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::14Para 14: Information Security Policy with the prescribed contents
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::15Para 15: Board-approved Cybersecurity Policy distinct from the IT and information security policies
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::7Para 7: Board approves IT, asset, continuity, security and cyber strategies and policies
rbi-cybersecurity-framework-for-banks::8Para 8: annual Board review of the strategies and policies

What is RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks and who does it apply to?

RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks is a compliance framework from India (Reserve Bank of India) with 16 domains and 216 controls. The Reserve Bank of India's 2026 Directions on cybersecurity, technology risk, resilience and assurance for commercial banks, which replaced the 2016 Cyber Security Framework in Banks and the 2023 IT governance Master Direction: Board and committee governance (IT Strategy Committee, Information Security Committee, an independent CISO reporting to risk), IT and cyber risk management, some 160 baseline controls from asset inventory to DMARC, VA/PT and half-yearly full-day DR switchovers, third-party and ATM switch provider controls, incident reporting on DAKSH within six hours, a Cyber Security Operations Centre and IS audit. It is used by organisations to establish and maintain compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

What does RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks actually require?

RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks has 216 controls organised across 16 domains. The largest domains are Chapter V L to P: access control, teleworking, customer authentication, mail and removable media – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks (22 controls), Chapter V R to X: cryptography, straight through processing, surveillance, threat defence, anti-phishing and VA/PT – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks (22 controls), Chapter V A to G: assets, data leakage, migration, software, physical, capacity and configuration – RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks (21 controls). Each control defines specific requirements that organisations must implement to achieve compliance.

If I already comply with another framework, how much of RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks do I already cover?

RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks does not currently have cross-framework mappings in our system. Check back as we continuously expand our mapping database.

How do I implement RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks?

Start your RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks compliance journey by running a self-assessment on our platform to identify your current compliance posture. Our AI advisory can answer specific questions about RBI Cybersecurity Framework for Banks requirements, and cross-framework mapping helps you leverage existing controls from other frameworks you may already comply with. Create a free account to access all 216 controls and track your progress.

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