SoftBank Launches AI-Powered Cybersecurity Service in Japan
The initiative, developed in partnership with OpenAI, aims to protect critical infrastructure companies from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
SoftBank Group Corp. has introduced a new service utilizing OpenAI technology to bolster cybersecurity defenses against the escalating threat of cyberattacks. SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son described Japan's vulnerability to such attacks as a "crisis," drawing a parallel to historical warfare where modern threats are far more advanced.
The service, termed a "patching service," is initially targeted at Japan's 3,000 largest companies, including those operating crucial infrastructure sectors such as airports, power systems, and transportation. Son stated that the company views it as a "duty" to address these threats.
The process involves identifying potential weaknesses in a company's systems and then analyzing and implementing measures to "patch up" these vulnerabilities. SoftBank and OpenAI, the creators of the popular ChatGPT chatbot, established a 50:50 joint venture, SB OAI Japan, last year to develop and exclusively market AI services within the Japanese market.
At the launch event in Tokyo, Mark Chen, OpenAI's chief researcher, was present, while OpenAI CEO Sam Altman appeared via a video message. Altman explained his absence due to the unexpected early arrival of his baby daughter.
This new service comes as the proliferation of AI has contributed to a significant increase in the complexity and volume of cyberattacks. The company noted that in response, cybersecurity measures must also become more sophisticated and adaptable.
SoftBank announced that all attendees at the Tokyo presentation were eligible to apply for a free diagnostic assessment. No specific financial details regarding the service were disclosed.