Takaichi calls for urgently strengthening countermeasures against cyberattacks

Thank you all for your hard work. A series of cyberattacks against Japanese companies and other organizations has resulted in numerous incidents involving large-scale information leaks and other damage. The situation has become serious, with growing concerns about secondary damage arising from the misuse of leaked information. We must urgently strengthen our countermeasures. With regard to support for affected companies and other organizations, I ask that you enhance the consultation services provided by the Information-technology Promotion Agency (IPA) and the police, strengthen cooperation with private-sector organizations and local governments, and establish a framework under which those seeking assistance can obtain the support they need, regardless of where they turn for advice. I also ask the National Cybersecurity Office, in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, to develop a framework for utilizing advanced expertise from the private sector throughout the process, from initial response to recovery.