IPA

Japan's IPA Opens Special Consultation Desk for Suspected Cyberattack Data Leaks

The Information-technology Promotion Agency (IPA) has launched a dedicated Unauthorized Access Special Consultation Desk to assist companies and organizations affected by cyber attacks resulting in information leaks. The service accepts inquiries from entities that only suspect they may have been victimized, providing initial response guidance even before confirmed incidents. Consultations cover advice on whether unauthorized access or data exfiltration is likely, recommended immediate containment steps, lists of incident response vendors, and reporting obligations to relevant authorities. The hotline operates on weekdays from 9:30 to 17:30 excluding the lunch hour, while email replies may take until the next business day. Separate channels exist for non-access incidents, general security advice, and individual personal data breach concerns. The move responds to a rising number of breaches targeting online services handling personal information.

IPA Reports Record High Fake Warning Scam Consultations in Q2 2026

The Information Processing Promotion Agency (IPA) recorded 3,832 personal security consultations in the second quarter of 2026, marking an 8.5 percent increase from the previous quarter. Fake warning scams, which display fabricated malware alerts to frighten users into contacting fraudsters, rose sharply to 1,428 cases, a 23.7 percent jump and the highest figure in two years. These scams carry risks of financial loss and device compromise through fake support services. Consultations dipped temporarily after arrests in May 2025 but have now exceeded levels seen before those arrests. Phishing reports also increased slightly to 146 cases, including schemes impersonating the National Tax Agency. The trend of rising fake warning incidents has continued for three consecutive quarters, underscoring the need for ongoing public vigilance.