AI speeds up cyberattacks on Japanese firms, security chief warns

What happened

Cyberattacks are accelerating with AI use, shortening the time between vulnerability discovery and attack launch, according to Nobuo Miwa, president of Tokyo-based information security firm S&J. Recent major targets include frozen food maker Nichirei, household goods supplier Askul, and beverage maker Asahi Group Holdings, all of which experienced serious disruptions.

Why it matters

Japanese companies historically face fewer cyberattacks and lack adequate defenses, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Miwa warns that AI can create attack programs "in the blink of an eye," meaning organizations must identify potential attack routes in advance and prepare mitigation measures rather than hoping to prevent all entry points.

What to watch

Ransomware attacks typically launch between late Sunday night and early Monday morning, with data encryption completed by early Monday. Miwa emphasizes the importance of disconnecting ordering systems if major system failure is a risk, and recommends close collaboration with external cybersecurity firms—though he notes this involves cost and responsibility-allocation challenges.