What is the special electronic government mailbox?
The Special Electronic Authority Mailbox (beBPo) is a secure transmission channel for electronic communication between public authorities and legal entities under public law with the judiciary, other authorities, solicitors, notaries and other institutions participating in electronic legal transactions (ERV). It is part of the infrastructure of the Electronic Court and Administration Mailbox (EGVP).
Important aspects
The beBPo is a central element in the digitisation of the judiciary and public administration in Germany and contributes significantly to more efficient and secure electronic communication.
- Legal basis and obligation: Since 1 January 2022, the use of beBPo has been mandatory for public authorities and legal entities under public law for the submission of preparatory pleadings, their annexes, and applications and declarations to be submitted in writing to the court (Section 130d ZPO, Section 14b FamFG, § 46g ArbGG, § 65d SGG, § 52d FGO, § 55d VerwGO). This also applies to communication with bailiffs (§ 753 (5) ZPO).
- Secure transmission channel: The beBPo ensures encrypted and secure transmission of documents. Messages are double-encrypted when sent, with the first encryption protecting the content and the second protecting the recipient's address (end-to-end encryption).
- Trusted proof of origin (VHN): When a message is sent via beBPo, a trusted proof of origin (VHN) is automatically attached. This serves as proof that the message actually originates from the specified mailbox of the authority and usually replaces the qualified electronic signature for the formal submission of electronic documents.
- How it works: To use beBPo, authorities need transmission and reception software and access to the SAFE directory service (secure authentication and activation service). Communication takes place via OSCI messages, which are exchanged via a virtual post office.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
The Special Electronic Authority Mailbox (beBPo) is a secure transmission channel for electronic communication between public authorities and legal entities under public law with the judiciary, other authorities, solicitors, notaries and other institutions participating in electronic legal transactions (ERV).