# GMO links ARTEX hacking tool to attacks targeting about 20 Japanese companies > Source: > Published: 2026-10-21 01:29:30+00:00 # GMO links ARTEX hacking tool to attacks targeting about 20 Japanese companies **The security firm says eight targeted companies disclosed data leaks in September and October, while warning its view is limited to infrastructure it observed.** By [Ryan Merket](https://runtimewire.com/author/ryan-merket) · Published Primary source: [X](https://x.com/IntCyberDigest/status/2112645782297878540) ## Why it matters GMO's report connects ARTEX to a Japan-focused campaign with eight disclosed leaks, while leaving the operators unidentified. It shows the value and limits of tracking tools: a shared offensive system can help map activity, but does not by itself establish who is behind it or link separate national campaigns. GMO Cybersecurity by Ierae said on October 19th that investigators found ARTEX, an AI-assisted penetration-testing tool, on infrastructure used in attacks targeting about 20 Japanese companies. Eight companies in the observed target set had disclosed data leaks in September and October, and GMO assessed the incidents as the work of the same attack group, according to its [report](https://gmo-cybersecurity.com/blog/20261019/).… When you purchase through links in our articles, [we may earn a small commission](https://runtimewire.com/affiliate-monetization-standards). This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.