The White House revives “privateering for the digital age” by authorizing cyber firms to strike foreign targets.
A 10th Mountain Division soldier operates a simulation of the Low Altitude Stalking and Strike Ordnance (LASSO) loitering munition during the Combined Resolve 25-1 exercise at the Hohenfels Training Area near Hohenfels, Germany, on February 3, 2025.
Sean Gallup/Getty Images
By Patrick Tucker
Science & Technology Editor
August 13, 2026 08:28 PM ET
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White House Mobilizes Security Firms for Operations Against Foreign Cybercrime Gangs
White House authorizes private companies to launch 'hack-back' cyberattacks that destroy data and systems, targeting foreign cybercrime organizations — vetted organizations can now conduct offensive cyber operations
