Japan faces rising ransomware and AI-assisted cyberattacks

· Cybersecurity · Japan

Japan is confronting a surge in cyber threats, with Microsoft reporting increasing ransomware attacks and police confirming that 53 Japanese companies were hit by the Qilin ransomware group, which has attacked some 4,000 companies worldwide since around October 2022. German authorities arrested a member of the Qilin group who was extradited from Japan. Separately, Japanese police identified three hacking methods primarily used in data leaks. Experts warn that artificial intelligence is lowering barriers for would-be hackers, making threats more sophisticated.

Why it matters：The attacks highlight how ransomware and AI-assisted hacking are straining corporate and national cybersecurity defenses worldwide.

Key points

  • Qilin has hit 53 Japanese companies and about 4,000 worldwide.
  • A Qilin member was arrested in Germany after extradition from Japan.
  • Microsoft reported rising ransomware attacks in Japan.

Sources (original reporting)

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