Japan Announces Emergency Cybersecurity Package Following a Wave of Attacks

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced an emergency cybersecurity policy package on Friday to address a wave of hacking incidents and unauthorized access to systems. According to SecurityWeek, the move follows dozens of companies and government agencies suffering data leaks. Channel News Asia and Free Malaysia Today report the package will initially be funded by 10 billion yen (US$63 million) from the government budget, though the total cost is expected to be higher.

The measures include strengthening security through the use of artificial intelligence, improving investigation and information gathering systems, reinforcing support for victims, and implementing steps to prevent further damage. The Winnipeg Free Press notes the package also includes cyber rescue teams. The Mainichi reports that the strategy is built on four pillars: strengthening basic security via AI, improving information gathering and analysis, adopting a strategic response approach, and enhancing victim support.

Additionally, The Mainichi reports that Takaichi has instructed cybersecurity minister Toshiharu Furukawa to consider revising a law to strengthen the government's ability to respond to attacks. The Prime Minister has also asked the finance minister to determine how to secure the necessary funds to implement the full plan.

Brief written by urgent.news from SecurityWeek, Channel News Asia, Free Malaysia Today, Winnipeg Free Press, The Mainichi — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.