Cybersecurity

Japan’s New Cybersecurity Strategy: Security Without Thwarting Economic Growth

In September 2015, the Japanese Cabinet approved the secondJapanese Cybersecurity Strategy, which outlines the country’s approach to cybersecurity for the next three years. Unlike the previous strategy, this new one was approved by Japan’s cabinet. This additional step highlights the importance of cybersecurity to senior Japanese leaders. It also comes a year after the Japanese parliament passed a law formalizing the role of the National Center of Incident Readiness and Strategy for Cybersecurity (NISC). The Japanese Prime Minister had originally established the NISC ten years ago but the lack of legal authorization meant that it held little sway over other ministries and agencies. Thanks to the new law, NISC is responsible for developing national strategy and policy, ensuring the cybersecurity of ministries and agencies, and serving as a focal point for international cooperation.