U.S. Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ) introduced legislation that would give Congress the authority to issue letters of marque and reprisal, which would allow the executive branch to deputize licensed cyber operators to pursue foreign cybercriminals.
The Cybercrime Marque and Reprisal Authorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 4988) would allow the executive branch to issue limited, targeted commissions to disrupt these foreign cybercriminal enterprises. In addition, these licensed cyber operators would be authorized to recover stolen assets, prevent future attacks, and defend critical infrastructure.
“Criminal syndicates backed by foreign governments are using cyberspace to prey on American seniors, steal intellectual property, and undermine national security,” Schweikert said. “Our current tools are failing to keep pace. This legislation allows us to effectively engage these criminals and bring accountability and restitution to the digital battlefield by leveraging the same constitutional mechanism that once helped secure our nation’s maritime interests.”
In 2024, Americans suffered $16 billion in cybercrime losses, a 33 percent increase compared to 2023. Americans over 60 suffered nearly $5 billion in reported financial damages.
Many of these cyberattacks originate from sophisticated “scam farms” in places like Myanmar and North Korea, where large-scale operations are often state linked.
“Americans deserve protection from digital predators who exploit outdated laws and hide in foreign jurisdictions,” Schweikert added. “This proposal harnesses innovation and constitutional authority to respond to the modern crisis of cybercrime.”
The Digital Chamber (TDC) applauded the proposed legislation.
As cyberattacks increasingly target America’s seniors, businesses, and critical infrastructure, traditional law enforcement tools alone are not enough to thwart the strident adversaries preying on vulnerable systems. This bill will empower the United States with a modern mechanism to pursue foreign cybercriminal enterprises and recover stolen assets by leveraging the most innovative talent in the world and deputizing licensed cyber operators,” Digital Chamber officials said.
TDC urges Congress to advance the bill.