White House Launches New Program to Combat Cybercrime, Authorizing Private Sector Cyber Operations

The White House has directed federal law enforcement to establish a new program that partners with the private sector to target transnational criminal organizations responsible for ransomware attacks, phishing campaigns, and other cybercrimes. President Trump signed a National Security Presidential Memorandum on August 12, 2026, allowing vetted private companies to conduct offensive cyber operations against foreign threat actors under U.S. government control and oversight. The initiative aims to enhance the nation's ability to counter cyber threats and combat fraud, with the Homeland Security Task Force's National Coordination Center overseeing the program. U.S. consumers reportedly lost over $20.8 billion to cyber-related crime last year.