A presidential memorandum issued on Wednesday expands federal capabilities against foreign cybercrime by establishing a program that allows vetted private US companies to conduct offensive and intelligence-gathering cyber operations under federal control.
Managed by the National Coordination Center (NCC), the program authorizes participating companies to execute ‘cyber surveillance operations’ and ‘cyber effects operations’ targeting foreign cyber-enabled transnational criminal organizations (TCOs).
The initiative operates under co-executive directors designated by the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security, ensuring all operational actions remain under direct federal supervision.
To participate, US companies must undergo rigorous vetting and sign formal contracts with the Department of Justice (DOJ) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These contracts may require a bond or escrow of at least $1 million, which will be forfeited if a company fails to comply with operational requirements.
Participating firms may enter commercial agreements with other private entities to receive threat intelligence, as well as with federal, state, and other agencies to identify specific foreign threats.
