Japan launches 10 billion yen emergency cybersecurity package with AI-powered defence teams

The Japanese government has announced an emergency cybersecurity package that includes the use of artificial intelligence and cyber rescue teams, after a wave of large data breaches hit major companies and government agencies, the Associated Press reported via Japan Today.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told a ministerial meeting on Friday that a rapid response to potential attacks is essential in the era of AI-generated attacks, and urged agencies and companies to step up their preparedness. The 10 billion yen package is designed to help the public and private sectors share information, assist those affected and recover from damage.

Under the package, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will set up a "top gun" team of cybersecurity experts by the end of November that will use AI to counter hackers and detect weaknesses in network systems, working with technology companies and advanced AI developers in friendly nations. A separate "cyber rescue team" of public and private experts will give initial help to companies hit by attacks, and another team will help vulnerable companies strengthen their defences.

The government will also expand "active cyber defense," which lets it access servers used by hackers as a preemptive measure and was legalised in October. If national security is at stake, it will deploy a support team from the Defense Ministry, the National Police Agency and the National Cybersecurity Office.