Japan asks US tech firms to disclose software flaws as ransomware rises

· Cybersecurity · Japan

Japan wants US technology companies to share undisclosed software vulnerabilities as cyber risks mount, according to Nikkei Asia. The push comes as ransomware attacks on Japanese companies have more than doubled in five years, with a survey finding that 37% of targeted firms paid ransoms. Separately, credit card numbers may have leaked in a cyberattack on Japanese retailer Muji, and electronics retailer Bic Camera said it may also have been affected by the latest string of data leaks.

Why it matters：As ransomware losses mount, Tokyo's push for disclosure from US tech giants highlights the growing tension between national cybersecurity needs and corporate secrecy.

Key points

  • Ransomware attacks on Japanese firms more than doubled in five years
  • 37% of targeted firms paid ransoms
  • Muji and Bic Camera reported possible data leaks

Sources (original reporting)

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