Japan data leak concerns grow as 1.67 million JR East email addresses may be exposed

Japan is stepping up its cybersecurity response after a series of data breaches exposed millions of customer records across businesses and public institutions. The Financial Services Agency (FSA) of the country, on 9 October, called on banks to accelerate the process of using chip-based identity documents, such as passports or MyNumber cards, in opening new bank accounts. The shift comes after cyberattacks on transport firms, retailers, financial services and government-related companies have raised fears about the security of personal data storage and handling.

According to the Financial Times, regulators want lenders to move away from using driving licences as the primary method of identity verification.