Trump Administration Authorizes Private Companies to Conduct Offensive Cyber Operations Against Foreign Criminal Groups

President Donald Trump signed a memorandum directing the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security to allow some U.S. firms to spy on and attack transnational cybercriminal organizations. This policy aims to combat ransomware, 'sextortion,' and online fraud, which cost Americans over $20 billion last year. Each operation will require prior government approval and companies must post a bond of at least $1 million, with actions causing death or injury excluded.