Supply Chain Security & SCS Evaluation
Starting late 2026, Japan's METI will launch the SCS evaluation system, requiring large enterprises to verify their vendors' security posture. Here's how SMBs can prepare.
What is Supply Chain Security?
Supply chain attacks exploit smaller vendors with weaker security to infiltrate larger enterprises. If your company's security is insufficient, your entire business relationship network is at risk.
The SCS Evaluation System
Announced by METI in December 2025, the 'Supply Chain Security Assessment System' provides a unified framework for evaluating security posture across the supply chain.
Basic Level (25 items)
Minimum security measures for all supply chain companies
Standard Level (44 items)
Standard security measures companies should aim for
Advanced Level (TBD)
For companies requiring advanced security
Timeline: ★3 and ★4 evaluation begins late FY2026. Evaluation guide to be published in fall 2026.
How SecureMint Can Help
Several items in the SCS ★3 checklist can be addressed using SecureMint's tools.
Data Encryption
AES-256 file encryption and E2E encrypted file sharing protect data at rest and in transit.
File Encryption→Access Control
Download limits, expiry settings, and recipient email verification control file access.
Secure File Sharing→Audit Trail
Download logs (date, time, IP address) track who accessed files and when (Pro).
View Pro features→Personal Data Protection
Metadata removal strips GPS coordinates and author info from files before sharing externally.
Metadata Removal→About IT Subsidy Programs
Japan's IT subsidy (Security Promotion category) covers services registered as IPA's 'Cyber Security Support Services'. These require 24/7 monitoring, incident response, and cyber insurance — requirements that browser-based tools like SecureMint don't fulfill.
However, SecureMint's tools can help address SCS evaluation checklist items in practice. We recommend combining SecureMint with a registered support service for comprehensive security coverage.
Security Self-Assessment Tool
Visualize your security posture with a 25-question checklist based on IPA guidelines. Export results as PDF for vendor compliance reporting.
Start Self-Assessment→Free to try, no registration required