Trump signs memo allowing private firms to conduct cyber attacks abroad

President Donald Trump signs a National Security Presidential Memorandum, released on August 12, 2026, authorizing private-sector firms to conduct offensive cyber operations abroad. Under direct federal oversight and control, these private partners will launch cyber attacks to disrupt criminal organizations targeting Americans. This policy significantly expands the scope of United States national security operations, which were previously conducted almost entirely by government agencies.

Private-sector offensive cyber operations

• ▪President Donald Trump signed a National Security Presidential Memorandum, released on August 12, 2026, authorizing private-sector firms to conduct offensive cyber operations abroad.
• ▪The offensive cyber operations authorized on August 12, 2026, establish a new partnership where the United States government enlists private firms to launch cyber attacks.

Federal government oversight

• ▪The United States federal government will maintain strict oversight over the private-sector firms authorized to launch cyber attacks abroad under the August 12, 2026 memorandum.
• ▪Private companies participating in the cyber offensive operations must operate under the direct control of the United States federal government.

Criminal organization disruption mandate

• ▪The mandate for private-sector cyber attacks focuses on disrupting criminal organizations that actively target American citizens.
• ▪The offensive cyber operations conducted by private firms under the August 12, 2026 memorandum are specifically aimed at disrupting criminal organizations.

National security operations expansion

• ▪Prior to the August 12, 2026 memorandum, United States offensive national security operations were largely conducted solely by government agencies.
• ▪The partnership with private firms expands the scope of United States national security operations abroad.

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