Cyber attacks hit Japan
25 February 2005
The Japanese government has been hit by a series of unique cyber attacks, targeting the computer systems of high-profile ministerial offices.
According to reports three denial of service (DNS) attacks took place on Tuesday and Wednesday each, causing computers in the prime minister's office and the cabinet office to freeze completely. The attacks swamped the systems with data, making it impossible for external websites to be accessed.
As of yet it is unknown whether the DNS attacks originated from inside or outside Japan. Officials report that no significant damage was caused and systems are now operating as normal. In August and January 2004 several Japanese ministries suffered similar attacks that also caused no permanent damage.
Commenting on the attacks chief cabinet secretary Hiroyuki Hosoda told a news conference: "We must thoroughly check risk control measures not only at the prime minister's office but other government offices as well."
In related news Singapore unveiled plans to tackle the threat of cyber attacks earlier this week, announcing a three-year programme designed to protect IT systems across a range of sectors. According to deputy prime minister Tony Tan the campaign, at a cost of approximately $24 million, will develop Singapore's capabilities to protect the country's infrastructure from such threats and respond swiftly to recover after a strike takes place, raising awareness within government, the private sector and general community about the threats while implementing appropriate security measures.
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