Japan warns for increased vigilance against rising cyberattacks

Japan's government has advised heightened vigilance against cyberattacks, which are increasing in frequency and becoming more sophisticated. The National Cybersecurity Office issued the advice to government ministries, which will then disseminate it to local public bodies and private companies. Basic steps recommended include maintaining updated security protection, utilizing robust passwords, and reinforcing cybersecurity measures across supply chains.

The warning also highlighted that cyber attackers have been posing as defenders of cybersecurity and that artificial intelligence is exacerbating vulnerabilities. Major Japanese firms, such as Lawson, Daiwa Securities, and BookOff Corp., have reported customer data breaches. In the past year, cyberattacks have already surpassed 500 incidents, compared to 473 in 2023 and 503 in 2024, suggesting a new record may be reached this year.

Leaks involving passport, driver's license, contact information, and credit card data have been recorded. Minister for Digital Transformation Toshiharu Furukawa emphasized that "the attacks are getting increasingly sophisticated" and urged everyone to protect personal information diligently.