THE Trump administration is initiating a program that recruits private security firms to execute government-authorized cyber operations against overseas criminal organizations targeting U.S. entities. A National Security Presidential Memorandum outlines that the National Coordination Center will oversee these operations, with the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security providing guidance. Targeted criminal activities include ransomware, phishing, and financial fraud.
This marks the first time private companies can conduct offensive cyber actions without prior court permission. However, there are strict conditions: firms must be vetted, ensure safety standards, and deposit $1 million in escrow. The precise operations are still being defined and will be clarified in the coming months.