U.S. Weighs Expanding Private Companies’ Role in Cyberwarfare
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- The Trump administration is considering a major change in its cyberstrategy by potentially involving private companies in offensive cyberattacks, according to former senior U.S. officials.
- Drafts of the upcoming National Cybersecurity Strategy include proposals to expand the role of private firms in cyberwarfare, which currently is limited to developing cyberoperations elements.
- This shift would raise legal and practical concerns, as current laws prohibit private companies from conducting offensive cyber campaigns without congressional approval.
- The more aggressive cyber approach is expected to be discussed during the confirmation hearing for Lt. Gen. Joshua M. Rudd, President Trump’s nominee to lead U.S. Cyber Command and the NSA.
- Past congressional proposals have sought to authorize private companies to carry out
