Act on Protection of Specially Designated Secrets

Japan's Act on Protection of Specially Designated Secrets (Act No. 108 of 2013) establishes a framework for protecting state secrets, including cybersecurity-related intelligence. The Act designates four categories of specially designated secrets: defense, diplomacy, prevention of specified harmful activities (including cyberattacks), and prevention of terrorism. Information designated as a specially designated secret may be protected for up to 60 years. The Act imposes strict access controls, requiring security clearances for personnel handling designated secrets. Unauthorized disclosure of specially designated secrets is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment. For cybersecurity professionals working with government agencies or defense contractors, the Act creates obligations around information handling, personnel vetting, and physical security. The Act is administered by each ministry, with oversight from the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office and the Information Security Policy Council.