Trump Signs Memo Authorizing Private Firms for Cyber Operations Against Foreign Criminals
Brief
President Donald Trump has signed a presidential memorandum that creates a pathway for companies to take part in government-led cyber operations against foreign criminal groups.
The policy targets cyber-enabled transnational criminal organizations, or CE-TCOs, accused of committing online crimes that harm Americans and businesses. The memorandum directs the National Coordination Center, or NCC, to establish and manage the program.
Participating companies may conduct cyber surveillance operations and cyber effects operations, but only under the direction, control, and oversight of the federal government.
The Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security will jointly supervise the effort through two program executive directors.