US Authorizes Private Cyber Operations Against Criminals
A new US presidential memo authorizes private firms to conduct active cyber operations and surveillance against foreign hackers. Read the full policy.
The cybersecurity landscape just experienced a seismic shift. A new presidential memorandum has officially authorized vetted private companies to actively participate in government-led cyber operations against foreign criminal networks.
Participating firms are now permitted to conduct two types of missions under DOJ/DHS supervision:
- Cyber Surveillance: Covert intelligence gathering on foreign adversary networks.
- Cyber Effects: Active disruption and degradation of criminal infrastructure.
However, strict guardrails are in place. Independent "hack-back" actions remain illegal, and companies must undergo intense federal vetting and maintain a $1 million compliance bond.
Top comments (0)