BIO: information security in government

BIO, the Baseline Information Security Government (Baseline Informatiebeveiliging Overheid), is the Dutch government's standard for information security. For all organisations that provide services to the government, compliance with BIO is essential.

BIO is intended as a minimum baseline. It defines what government organisations must do at a minimum to protect their IT systems and data against security risks. This is not a "nice to have" but a formal obligation for all central government organisations and many decentralised authorities.

The BIO baselines are divided into three levels: baseline, increased and high. Which level is relevant for your organisation depends on the risk profile of your IT systems and data. Organisations that process confidential government data will probably need to reach the "increased" or "high" level.

BIO consists of specific controls across seven areas: information security governance and organisation, personnel, physical security, access control, systems management, business continuity and disaster recovery, and information security incident management.

Information security governance means that your organisation must formally appoint responsible persons, allocate budget, and document procedures. This goes beyond technical measures alone; it requires structural embedding of security within your organisation.

Personnel-related controls in BIO require background checks, security awareness training, and clear procedures for when employees leave the organisation. This reduces the risks of insider threats.

BIO compliance is ensured through regular audits. Government organisations must demonstrate that they meet BIO requirements. This audit evidence can come in useful when you work with subcontractors.

For organisations outside of direct government, BIO requirements are also relevant. Many government tenders require BIO compliance. When you bid for government contracts, BIO conformity can be a differentiating point.

Does your organisation work with the Dutch government? We help you build or improve BIO compliance. Our team carries out BIO compliance audits and advises on implementation. Get in touch.