Trump allows private companies in the U.S. to conduct offensive cyber operations

Donald Trump has signed a memorandum on national security that allows private companies in the U.S. to not only take defensive measures against cyberattacks but also to carry out offensive cyber operations. This was announced by the White House press office.

The measure represents a significant shift in the strategy for dealing with cyber threats and enables select firms, on behalf of the government, to both prevent attacks and initiate offensive cyber operations. This comes against the backdrop of rising cyberattacks on government institutions and critical infrastructure in the U.S.

According to reports, this new approach is expected to foster increased collaboration between the government and the IT sector in conducting attacks and investigations in the field of cybersecurity. The government has indicated that this is a response to the growing threats from cyberspace.