Trump administration wants to allow companies to hack foreign cybercriminals
The Trump administration has introduced a program that could allow private companies to conduct offensive cyber operations against foreign hackers. This policy marks a significant shift in U.S. cybersecurity strategy by potentially outsourcing tasks traditionally reserved for government agencies.
Why it matters
This represents a major change in international cyber warfare policy, raising questions about legal liability and the privatization of national security.
Enlarge this image Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images WASHINGTON — President Trump wants private companies to hack the hackers.
National Security Are hacks of U.S. water facilities a new front in the Iran war? In a memo issued late Wednesday, the Trump administration announced a program that could authorize some U.S. businesses to pursue government-selected foreign cybercriminals.
In the past, that work has been performed by government agencies.
The presidential memorandum doesn't fully explain how it would allow a private business to take the lead on work traditionally performed by the U.S. government, like spying or disruptive cyber operations.
U.S. anti-hacking laws broadly bar people and businesses from hacking digital infrastructure, with some exceptions to allow law enforcement work. This memo does not change those laws, but it mandates any participating company be contracted with the federal government.
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