The directive allows federal agencies to collaborate with companies for offensive cyber operations against transnational crime groups.
President Donald Trump signed a memorandum authorizing federal law enforcement to partner with private sector firms in cyber-offensive actions against foreign criminal organizations targeting U.S. interests. The move expands the government’s capacity to disrupt cyber threats beyond traditional defense measures.
The directive follows rising concerns over ransomware attacks and digital espionage from state-linked and independent criminal groups. Previous efforts focused on defensive strategies, but this shift emphasizes proactive disruption. No specific targets or timelines were disclosed in the announcement.
Markets showed limited immediate reaction, as the policy’s impact on cybersecurity stocks or broader tech sectors remains unclear.