White House taps security firms for offensive hack-back operations
Source Bleeping Computer
Description
The White House has authorized a new program allowing vetted private security firms to conduct offensive cyber operations against foreign transnational criminal organizations. This initiative, established by a national security presidential memorandum signed by President Donald Trump, enables private companies to apply for approval to hack foreign cybercrime groups under strict legal and constitutional oversight. The program aims to disrupt criminal activities such as ransomware, phishing, financial fraud, sextortion, and impersonation scams. Participating firms must comply with rigorous procedures, maintain a financial bond, and immediately cease operations if unauthorized targeting occurs. This represents a significant expansion of the private sector's role in U.S. offensive cyber operations.