White House Proposal Considers Private Action Against Foreign Cybercriminals

Why it matters locally: The proposal could impact Wisconsin companies across various sectors, particularly those engaged in technology, manufacturing, and finance, by offering new avenues for defending against international cyber threats.

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WASHINGTON – The Trump administration has put forward a memorandum that outlines a policy allowing private companies to engage in offensive cyber operations against foreign individuals or groups suspected of cybercrime. The White House document, while not providing extensive operational specifics, indicates an intent to permit businesses to conduct activities such as spying on or disrupting the operations of certain foreign actors. This proposal targets cybercriminals operating outside the jurisdiction of the United States. Officials familiar with the memorandum stated that the initiative aims to empower American companies to defend themselves more directly against cyber threats originating internationally.