# US authorization of private offensive cyber operations > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-authorization-of-private-offensive-cyber-operations > Updated: 2026-08-14T21:46:59.000Z. Sources: 74. Developments: 2. President Donald Trump signed a National Security Presidential Memorandum authorizing vetted private-sector cybersecurity firms to conduct offensive cyber operations against transnational criminal organizations. Managed by the National Coordination Center with oversight from the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security, the program allows for both cyber surveillance to gather intelligence and cyber effects operations to disrupt or destroy digital infrastructure used by criminals. The initiative targets threats such as ransomware, phishing, and financial fraud. To participate, companies must undergo rigorous vetting, sign government contracts, and maintain a bond or escrow of at least $1 million. The memorandum prohibits operations that would cause death, serious injury, or constitute an armed attack under international law. While the program aims to leverage private sector innovation to combat the economic impact of cybercrime, legal experts have raised questions regarding whether these firms receive exemptions from the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Additionally, critics have warned of the potential for uncontrolled escalation. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-14: United States authorizes private firms to conduct offensive cyber operations The U.S. government will authorize private cybersecurity firms to conduct offensive operations against transnational criminal networks to combat the rising economic impact of cybercrime. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/united-states-authorizes-private-firms-to-conduct-offensive-cyber-operations ### 2026-08-12: Trump authorizes private firms to conduct offensive cyber operations President Trump signed a memorandum authorizing private cybersecurity firms to conduct offensive cyber operations against foreign criminal groups under strict federal oversight. 71 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/trump-authorizes-private-sector-cyber-operations-against-foreign-criminal-groups --- Cite as: US authorization of private offensive cyber operations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-authorization-of-private-offensive-cyber-operations