Trump authorizes private sector cyber operations against foreign criminal groups

President Donald Trump has signed a national security memorandum authorizing the use of private sector cyber capabilities to combat transnational criminal organizations operating in foreign jurisdictions. The initiative aims to address threats such as ransomware attacks and financial fraud that target American prosperity and security.

Under the new framework, selected private companies will be permitted to conduct surveillance and operations capable of interrupting, degrading, or destroying the digital networks used by criminal groups, provided they have prior government approval. The program will be managed by the National Coordination Center (NCC) with joint oversight from the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security.

To participate, companies must undergo a rigorous evaluation process involving technical expertise, operational history, and facility security. They must also enter into formal government contracts and may be required to maintain a financial guarantee of at least $1 million, which is subject to confiscation in the event of contract violations. Authorities are tasked with establishing the specific operational rules for the program within 60 days.