Trump Authorizes Private Firms to Hack Overseas Cybercriminals

TL;DR. The Trump administration has authorized private security firms to conduct cyber attacks against foreign criminal organizations targeting US entities. - A National Security Presidential Memorandum enables private sector involvement in offensive cyber operations for the first time. - Oversight will be provided by the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, targeting ransomware and other cybercrimes. - The memo permits actions like spyware deployment or data destruction, previously restricted without court approval.

• US government authorizes private security firms for offensive cyber operations against foreign criminal organizations.
• A National Security Presidential Memorandum directs this new program, overseen by Homeland Security and Justice Departments.
• Targeted activities include ransomware, sextortion, phishing, and financial fraud by 'cyber-enabled' transnational criminal organizations.
• This marks the first time private companies are explicitly permitted to conduct such attacks, potentially using spyware or data destruction.
• Independent security researchers express both merit in the idea and concerns about the incentives for private cyber companies.

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