The warning puts the focus on vulnerabilities that cannot be judged simply by how large a bank is or how far its physical network extends. For smaller urban co-operative lenders, a limited footprint does not necessarily mean limited exposure to technology-related risks.

Swaminathan identified three areas of concern: cyber threats, fraud through digital channels and dependence on external providers. His remarks underline that the risk picture includes not just threats directed at a bank, but also its reliance on services delivered by others.

He called for stronger protective measures, planning to maintain operations during disruptions and shared infrastructure. The emphasis was on preparing for these vulnerabilities rather than assuming that a smaller institution faces a smaller challenge.

The supplied report does not set out specific safeguards, explain how shared infrastructure would work or give an implementation timetable. It also does not state any new reporting requirement for bank employees. The remarks should therefore be read as a warning about risk preparedness, not as details of a newly announced compliance process.