Trump opens path for private cyber strikes on foreign crime groups
What's new: The plan lets vetted companies run government-supervised disruption operations and post a $1 million bond.
President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on Aug. 12 creating a framework for federal agencies and private companies to carry out cyber operations against foreign-based transnational criminal organizations targeting Americans. The White House said the effort is aimed at threats including ransomware and financial fraud. Under the plan, the Department of Homeland Security and the Justice Department will oversee a program for vetted companies to conduct cyber surveillance and disruption missions against specified targets. The memo also encourages threat-sharing agreements across private firms and federal, state, local, tribal and territorial agencies. Participating companies must maintain a bond or escrow of at least $1 million.