TOKYO (AP) — Japan announced an emergency cybersecurity program Friday that includes the use of artificial intelligence and cyber rescue teams after a wave of massive data breaches hit big businesses and government agencies.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told a ministerial meeting on Friday that rapid response to potential attacks was essential in the era of AI-generated attacks. She urged government agencies and businesses to step up their preparation.
The emergency plan comes after dozens of companies and government agencies were hit by unauthorized access to their systems and leaks of customer data, causing unease across Japan.
“Right now, cases of unauthorized access and data breaches are occurring, having a major impact on people’s daily lives and businesses’ operations,” Takaichi said. “Let’s increase response capacity across Japan by devoting all government resources.”
The 10 billion yen ($63 million) program’s measures aim to build a resilient society in which the public and private sectors share information, provide rapid assistance to those affected and recover from damage.
It aims to achieve one of the highest levels of cybersecurity in the world.
The government will strengthen its ability to access servers used by hackers as part of a preventative measure known as “active cyber defense”, which was legalized in October.
In the event of a possible threat to Japan’s national security, the government will deploy a support team consisting of officials from the Ministry of Defense, the National Police Agency and the National Cybersecurity Bureau.
As part of the measures included in this package, a “top gun” team of cybersecurity experts will be set up by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry by the end of November. Team members will use AI to counter hackers and detect weaknesses in network systems. They should cooperate with technology companies and advanced AI developers from friendly countries to keep Japanese security expertise up to date.
A “cyber rescue team” made up of experts from the public and private sectors will also be set up to provide initial responses to companies affected by cyberattacks. A separate team will help vulnerable businesses strengthen their defenses.
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