Multiple Japanese Companies Report Data Breaches: Check If You Are a Customer

Several major Japanese companies have recently notified the public about data breaches affecting their systems. Aflac's Tokyo division and Sapporo brewery are among the companies that disclosed these security incidents. A manufacturer and a telecommunications company also reported breaches, though specific details about what information was accessed vary by company.

If you have insurance through Aflac in Japan or use products or services from any Japanese companies, your personal information may have been exposed. This could include your name, contact information, policy numbers, or account details. Customers of the affected telecommunications company may have phone records or account information at risk.

Even if you do not directly use these companies, you may be affected if you have business connections or family members in Japan who do.

If you are an Aflac Tokyo customer or use any of these Japanese companies, take these steps immediately:

1. Contact the company directly to find out if your specific account was affected.
2. Change your password if you have an online account with any of these companies.
3. Watch your email and phone for phishing attempts that use information from the breach.
4. Monitor any financial accounts linked to these services for suspicious activity.
5. Be extra cautious about unexpected calls or emails claiming to be from these companies. Be aware that breaches at international companies can affect you even if you live in another country. If you have insurance, retirement accounts, or business dealings with Japanese companies, treat your accounts with the same care as domestic ones. Set up account alerts, use strong passwords, and never share verification codes sent to your phone. Criminals may use stolen information months after a breach, so stay vigilant long term.