US takes risky bet on private 'pirates' to combat cybercrime
The United States will allow private companies to hack foreign cybercriminal groups, a seemingly unprecedented measure that is dividing experts who say it has potential to succeed or spiral out of con...
The United States has authorized private companies to engage in hacking foreign cybercriminal groups, a move that is sparking debate among experts. This unprecedented measure, outlined in a memorandum signed by President Donald Trump, could potentially combat cyber threats such as ransomware, sextortion, and online fraud, which cost Americans over $20 billion in 2025.
Under the new rules, private partners must seek prior government approval for operations like taking down servers or deploying spyware, and must post a bond of at least $1 million. The approach draws a historical parallel to privateering, when governments authorized private ships to attack enemy vessels. Ari Redbord, head of policy and government affairs at TRM Labs, sees similarities with this historical practice, but warns that oversight must extend beyond the initial operation.
Critics, however, argue that the government lacks the control to ensure the private sector adheres to international law. The program's implementation, which will undergo a 60-day review, will have to balance the potential for success against the risks of misattributed targets, diplomatic complications, and the erosion of oversight mechanisms.
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