Japan unveils $63 million cyber defence package after attacks

Japan’s government unveiled an emergency cybersecurity package on 6 November 2026 after a wave of data breaches and unauthorized system access affected dozens of companies and government agencies. The plan, reported by the Associated Press for SecurityWeek, totals 10 billion yen (about $63 million) and aims to raise national resilience by boosting information sharing between public and private sectors, accelerating support for victims and speeding recovery. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described the move as essential in the era of AI‑generated attacks and urged agencies and firms to strengthen preparedness.

Key elements include expanding Japan’s active cyber defence capabilities, a preemptive measure authorised in October, and the deployment of a dedicated “top gun” cyber defence team from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry by the end of November. The team will employ AI to counter hackers and identify weaknesses, with collaboration planned with technology firms and AI developers from friendly nations to keep security expertise current.

A separate “cyber rescue team” will coordinate initial responses to affected organisations, while another unit will assist vulnerable companies to reinforce their protections. In cases of national security challenges, officials from the Defence Ministry, the National Police Agency and the National Cybersecurity Office may form a rapid response contingent. Claims and figures are attributed to government statements and AP reporting.