subject: New Bill To Criminalize Creation Of Computer Viruses. Information Security Training May Reduce Risk [print this page] In the recent times, business organizations and government departments in Japan have been repeatedly targeted by cybercriminals to steal confidential information. Organizations worldwide have been forced to shell out a considerable proportion of their resources towards IT security. Leakage of sensitive business information may adversely impact the competitiveness of a company.
Unauthorized access to sensitive documents in government departments may not only adversely affect the strategic and military interests, but may also strain diplomatic ties with other countries. Recently, The Justice ministry of Japan announced plans to introduce a bill to prohibit computer virus creation.
Laws currently in force in Japan do not aid the counter-crime agencies in directly punish offenders in possession of computer viruses. The new bills aim to harmonize Japan's cyber security laws in tune with an international treaty signed by Japan at the beginning of the current decade.
Criminalizing creation and distribution of computer viruses is crucial to control the menace of cybercrime. Thousands of people across the world are affected by cybercrimes such as phishing and identity theft. Unwary Internet users fall prey to such crimes and compromise sensitive personal and financial information.
Creating user awareness and encouraging information security training in schools and universities may help in reducing the instances of cybercrime. IT security courses in Universities may also help in creating a team of cyber warriors to meet the future challenges in cyber security.
Some of the institutions are offering security certification training through mobile applications, which facilitates self paced learning opportunity to working individuals.
IT security experts repeatedly warn against use of cyberspace for information warfare by rival countries. Recent attacks on industrial installations and defense department websites of leading countries highlight the looming threat of cyber war.
Usually, IT security specialists such as ethical hackers are hired to identify the vulnerabilities and initiating corrective action. Countries across the world need to adopt a proactive approach to deal with the threats in the cyberspace and encourage.
