Meeting the threat: Japan enlarges cybersecurity agency’s staff

Meeting the threat: Japan enlarges cybersecurity agency's staff

TOKYO — The national center overseeing public-sector computer security has added about 50 workers as part of efforts to fortify network defenses as attacks on government systems grow more frequent.

     The government has expanded the ranks at the center, known as the NISC, to 130, up 60% from January. Hires include a variety of technology experts. The NISC aims to add even more people by year-end by taking on new talent and borrowing workers from other agencies.

     The Cabinet Office organization monitors all government agencies for signs of illicit computer access and provides analyses of attacks. The scope of its operations is growing to include audits of agency systems, drills simulating cyberattacks, and other responsibilities.

     The NISC will also step up cooperation with other agencies possessing strong technical expertise, including the Information-technology Promotion Agency and the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology. By handing off a portion of the NISC’s duties to the other two organizations, the government hopes to strengthen cybersecurity policies across the board.

(Nikkei)

Meeting the threat: Japan enlarges cybersecurity agency's staff