Japan Goes on Offense With New ‘Active Cyber Defense’ Bill

Summary: The Japanese government has implemented the Active Cyber Defense Bill to enhance its cybersecurity capabilities and address increasing cyber threats, primarily from state-sponsored actors. The legislation allows proactive measures to prevent cyberattacks and improve national readiness, following critical feedback on Japan’s cybersecurity preparedness. This new approach emphasizes early identification and neutralization of threats to protect critical infrastructure and national security.

Affected: Japanese government and national cybersecurity systems

Keypoints :

• Two articles of legislation make up the Active Cyber Defense Bill, focusing on both passive and active cyber defense measures.
• Japan will establish a cybersecurity council and empower the prime minister’s office for better incident reporting and information gathering.
• The military and law enforcement will gain new powers to actively respond to cyber threats, including hiring “cyber harm prevention officers.”