President Trump yesterday directed federal law enforcement to create a new program that partners with the private sector to target transnational criminal organizations responsible for ransomware attacks, phishing campaigns and other cybercrimes.
According to a White House summary, the executive order directs the Homeland Security Task Force’s National Coordination Center to create a program to conduct cyber operations that disrupt transnational criminal organizations, with the program overseen by executive directors from the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland Security. The program will recruit private companies to provide services to combat cybercrime for private and public entities.
U.S. consumers reported losing more than $20.8 billion to cyber-related crime last year, according to the White House. At the same time, three in four adults have experienced some kind of online scam or attack.
“By partnering with vetted U.S. companies, we will enhance our ability to counter [transnational criminal organization] threats and combat transnational cybercrime, fraud and other predatory schemes against American citizens,” the White House said.
