H.R. 4988: Scam Farms Marque and Reprisal Authorization Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Scam Farms Marque and Reprisal Authorization Act of 2025, seeks to give the President of the United States the authority to issue letters of marque and reprisal. These letters would allow privately appointed individuals or entities to act against those considered to be members of criminal enterprises involved in cybercrimes, particularly when these acts are seen as aggression against the United States.

Key Provisions

• Presidential Authority: The President can commission private entities to act against individuals or foreign governments that are deemed to be part of criminal enterprises linked to cybercrimes.
• Security Bonds: Before issuing a letter of marque and reprisal, the President must require a security bond to ensure that the terms will be followed.
• Definitions of Cybercrime: The bill defines various forms of cybercrime that would be relevant, including actions like unauthorized access to computers, identity theft, ransomware attacks, and scams involving cryptocurrencies.

Findings

• The bill states that the Constitution grants Congress the power to issue letters of marque and reprisal.
• It acknowledges that criminal enterprises using cybercrime are a significant threat to national and economic security.

Scope of Cybercrime

The bill details specific types of cybercrimes, including:

• Unauthorized computer access to obtain classified or personal information.
• Engagement in fraud through unauthorized computer access.
• Damage to computer systems via malicious programs or commands.
• Scams such as "pig butchering," ransomware operations, and cryptocurrency theft.

By allowing actions against such criminals, the bill aims to deter and prevent these activities that threaten the United States.

Relevant Companies

None found.