New program allows U.S. companies to disrupt cybercrime networks with DOJ and DHS supervision, amid $20.8 billion in reported losses last year.
President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on August 12 establishing a federal program permitting private firms to conduct offensive cyber operations against foreign criminal networks. Companies must post a $1 million bond and operate under Department of Justice and Homeland Security oversight, with annual reviews required for participation.
The initiative follows a record $20.8 billion in losses reported by Americans to cyber-enabled crime in 2025, according to the White House. The program aims to leverage private sector expertise to counter transnational criminal organizations involved in fraud, cybercrime, and other predatory schemes.
Two executive directors, one each from DOJ and DHS, will manage the program. Participating firms can propose operations to access, surveil, disrupt, or destroy systems tied to foreign cyber threats, though they assume legal risks independently.