US Gov Hiring Hacker Privateers
The Trump administration released a National Security Presidential Memorandum allowing vetted private cybersecurity companies to conduct offensive cyber surveillance and effects operations against foreign cyber-enabled transnational criminal organizations under strict federal oversight from the Justice and Homeland Security departments. Companies must undergo rigorous vetting, post a $1 million bond, and operate only under government direction; operations cannot target Americans or U.S. systems and require prior DOJ/DHS approval. The policy aims to leverage private-sector speed and innovation against ransomware, fraud, and other schemes costing Americans billions annually. It marks a significant shift from long-standing restrictions on private-sector cyber offense.