U.S. authorities are launching a program under which private companies will be able to conduct cyberattacks against foreign criminal groups. Such operations would be overseen by federal authorities, but experts have warned of possible legal and geopolitical ramifications.
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Private companies will be able to monitor the activities of foreign criminal networks and disrupt their work, according to the released memo. The program will be overseen by the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, and participating companies must demonstrate technical training, network operations experience and security compliance. Furthermore, it was reported edge refer to Bloombergeach company will be required to provide at least $1 million in guarantees and it will suffer losses if contract terms are breached.
At the same time, the company’s power will be limited. In particular, action is only allowed against organizations that do not belong to a foreign country and do not act exclusively on its instructions.
The Donald Trump administration views the private sector as an underutilized resource in combating cybercrime and intends to use its capabilities alongside other government tools. Until then, U.S. authorities had mostly conducted such operations themselves, but last year began discussing plans to involve private companies.
Ben Bernstein, director of Huntress’ cybersecurity advisory group, also expressed concern about how the plan would develop. The main problem is that it can be extremely difficult to establish links between criminal groups and countries, and the cyberattack itself can affect third-party infrastructure. For example, criminals often use hacked routers and servers of common companies, including healthcare organizations, to hide their location. “This makes it nearly impossible to fight back without hurting innocent people.” Bernstein explained.
Experts also warn that U.S. personnel involved in such operations overseas could face serious personal risks or even become combatants without formal military status.
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