*This is an English translation of the notice published in Japanese on November 6, 2026.

Regarding the unauthorized access to our systems that occurred on October 31, 2026, our investigation has revealed that some personal information we hold may have been leaked. We sincerely apologize for any  concern and inconvenience this may cause for you and your company. We are providing the following information based on what we know at this time.

1. Background

On October 31, 2026, a third party gained unauthorized access to systems we operate. Through our subsequent investigation, we have confirmed that some personal information may have been leaked. Details are included below.

2. Information That May Have Been Leaked

(1) Contact persons and departments using our systems for media partners (publishers)
Number of records: 1,582
Information: Email addresses

(2) Contact persons and departments at business partners using our advertising services
Number of records: 207
Information: Email addresses

(3) SmartNews users
Number of records: 1,033
Information: Internal user IDs (IDs used only within our internal systems, which cannot identify an individual on their own)

3. Information Not Included

We have confirmed that the information does not include passwords, credit card information, or other information that carries a high risk of misuse.

4. Status of Secondary Harm

To date, we have not confirmed any secondary harm, such as misuse, resulting from this incident.

5. Notification to Affected Individuals

We will contact affected parties individually, in sequence, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Please be cautious of suspicious emails, text messages (SMS), phone calls, or other communications claiming to be from us. We will never ask for your password or similar information by email or phone.

6. Our Response

We take this matter very seriously. We are implementing measures to prevent recurrence and will continue working to further strengthen our security.

If we learn of any new matters that should be disclosed, we will promptly announce them.

7. Contact

For inquiries regarding this matter, please contact us through the following:

(1) Contact persons and departments using our systems for media partners (publishers)
US Media Partnerships
partners@smartnews.com

(2) Contact persons and departments at business partners using our advertising services
SmartNews Ads Help Center
https://smartnews-ads.zendesk.com/hc/ja/requests/new

(3) SmartNews users
SmartNews Help Center
https://support.smartnews.com/hc/ja/requests/new