There Are Threats From Russia And China, Japan Increases Its Cybersecurity

Illustration. (Wikimedia Commons/Chris Roberts)

JAKARTA - The Japanese government announced plans to increase its cybersecurity capabilities for the next three years, citing the alleged involvement of China and Russia in cyber attacks, as well as calling for increased deterrence, Wednesday, July 7 local time.

The new cybersecurity strategy is planned to be approved by the Japanese Cabinet in September, after soliciting public opinion. Interestingly, the names of China and Russia are clearly mentioned as part of the threat.

China is suspected of carrying out cyber attacks to steal information from companies linked to the military and others with advanced technology. While Russia allegedly did so for military and political purposes.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato, who heads a special task force on cybersecurity strategy, ordered members at his meeting to enhance defense, deterrence and assessment capabilities.

"At the same time strengthening cooperation among relevant agencies to protect security interests," Kato said as quoted by Kyodo News, Wednesday, July 7.

In addition, he also appealed to immediately respond if abnormal activity is detected in cyberspace during the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics which will start on 23 July.

The strategy, which will replace the current strategy adopted in July 2018, calls for increased deterrence through the Japan-United States (US) alliance, by holding joint exercises with Japan's Self-Defense Forces and US forces.

He also seeks to support capacity building in cybersecurity in the Indo-Pacific region, including members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

From the economic security point of view, it is urgent to secure the main infrastructure for overseas communications, including undersea communication cables, and create security standards and credibility of information technology devices.