Security is a basic human need. Without security, the social order would simply collapse. And the desire for security is growing – also within the area of IT security. More than ever our society is dependent on the proper functioning of information and communications technology.

Here the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has a special task: we are the central IT security service provider for the German government. By our basic research within the area of IT security we take responsibility for the security of our society, and are thus indispensable to the internal security of Germany. 

Our services and products are aimed at the users and manufacturers of information technology products. Those are primarily the public administration at federal, state and municipal level, in addition companies and private users. As Germany’s National Security Agency, it is our goal to promote IT security in Germany so that everyone can make the most of the opportunities opened up by the information society.

The more dependent people become on information technology, the more relevant the issue of security becomes. The threat to our society in terms of the havoc that computer failure, misuse or sabotage could cause is greater than ever before. Due to the complexity of IT problems, the spectrum of tasks facing the BSI is extremely wide-ranging. The BSI investigates security risks associated with the use of IT and develops preventive security measures. It provides information on risks and threats relating to the use of information technology and seeks out appropriate solutions. This work includes IT security testing and assessment of IT systems, including their development, in co-operation with industry. Even in technically secure information and telecommunications systems, risks and damage can still occur as a result of inadequate administration or improper use. To minimise or avoid these risks, the BSI's services are intended for a variety of target groups: it advises manufacturers, distributors and users of information technology. It also analyses development and trends in information technology. 

www.bsi.bund.de