TrendAI: Cybersecurity Incidents Surge in Japan in 2026
TrendAI research confirms Japan's cybersecurity warning as incidents rise in 2026. More breaches were reported in the first nine months of the year than in all of 2025.
Cybersecurity firm TrendAI is warning Japanese organizations about a surge in cyberattacks. The company's research indicates that more publicly disclosed security incidents occurred in the first nine months of 2026 than in the entirety of 2025. September alone saw 86 incidents, an 18% increase from August and a 37% rise from July.
The Japanese government has expressed concern, with the National Cybersecurity Strategy Headquarters stating that "cyberspace is in a state of emergency." A series of attacks targeting retailers, financial services, a car-sharing service, and a rail operator have exposed the data of millions of customers. The government has issued guidance to ministries, local authorities, and private companies on updating security, using strong passwords, and tightening supply chain security.
TrendAI notes that attackers are exploiting known vulnerabilities in public-facing applications to gain access to systems. While artificial intelligence (AI) has not been directly linked to these specific incidents, it is believed to accelerate reconnaissance and automate attacks, potentially undermining language-based defenses against foreign actors. AI also lowers attack costs, making smaller organizations more attractive targets for cybercriminals.
TrendAI recommends that organizations strengthen their defenses. Key measures include patching internet-facing systems, hardening web servers, monitoring database access, vetting third-party suppliers, and enhancing identity verification. Companies are also advised to incorporate AI usage into their security strategies and assess associated risks.