Japan launches emergency cybersecurity package after wave of attacks

On Friday, November 6, Japan unveiled a multi-million dollar emergency cybersecurity package in response to a sudden surge of hacking incidents affecting numerous businesses. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged to take decisive action following reports of unauthorized access to systems and potential leaks of client data. The package, initially funded by 10 billion yen (US$63 million) from the government's budget, aims to bolster security measures, enhance investigation systems, and provide support for victims while preventing the spread of damage.

The emergency countermeasures will likely cost more than the initial budget as the premier asks her finance minister to explore options for additional funding. The package includes the use of AI for security, strengthening investigation systems, and reinforcing support for victims and efforts to prevent damage propagation. Media reports suggest the creation of a "cyber rescue team" comprising government and private sector experts, which will be coordinated through a secretariat within the fiscal year.

Takaichi emphasized the need to keep up with the speed of cyberattacks in the AI era, stating that incidents of unauthorized access and information leaks are occurring frequently with significant impacts on citizens' lives and corporate activities. She called for mobilizing the full capabilities of the government to strengthen the nation's overall response capacity.

The government acknowledged that Chinese AI cybersecurity tool Artex was used in several recent hacks of Japanese companies, with GMO Internet Group Inc also experiencing attacks.