In August 2025, the US Congress introduced a bill aimed at authorizing privateers to combat cybercrime in the cryptocurrency sector. The primary goal is to tackle cryptocurrency theft and ransomware.
Bill Objectives
The bill, known as the **Scam Farms Marque and Reprisal Authorization Act of 2025**, was proposed to address the growing threat of cybercrime. The legislation seeks to modernize outdated laws to ensure the protection of digital assets and potentially increase the government's reserves of Bitcoin and altcoins.
Authorship and Support
The bill was spearheaded by Arizona Congressman **David Schweikert** and is supported by **Chris Giancarlo** and **Chris Perkins**. Schweikert emphasized the need for modern solutions to protect Americans from digital predators. He stated, "Americans deserve protection from digital predators who exploit outdated laws and hide in foreign jurisdictions."
Discussion and Reactions
Community responses to the bill are currently limited, but there are discussions regarding the ethical implications and effectiveness of the proposed approach. Experts are considering the impacts on cross-border legalities and the oversight of deputizing private hackers for cyber offenses. Chris Perkins, President of CoinFund, expressed that "neo-privateering is the only way to restore security in a way that attracts entrepreneurs back onshore and simultaneously helps to fund the strategic crypto arsenal."
The proposed bill to authorize privateers in combating cybercrime could significantly alter the approach to cybersecurity and reshape international cooperation in this domain.
