JSPS: unauthorized access to its electronic application system, used for KAKENHI and other grants, takes it offline

On 29 October Japan Society for the Promotion of Science confirmed unauthorized third-party access to its JSPS Electronic Application System and immediately disconnected it from outside networks. The system remains down, affecting procedures for KAKENHI grants, researcher training programs and international exchange programs. The access occurred in a publicly exposed area that stores no personal data, and no leak of personal data has been confirmed so far. JSPS is preparing restoration and alternative ways to continue the procedures. [1]