Arizona Representative Proposes New Strategy for Combating Crypto Crime
Arizona lawmaker David Schweikert introduced the �Scam Farms Marque and Reprisal Authorization Act of 2025� in August. The bill aims to address rising cyber threats, specifically targeting crimes involving cryptocurrency. Its proposal revives the historic practice of granting private individuals state sanction to act against cybercriminals.
Neo-privateers Target Cybercrime
If passed, the act would authorize the US president to allow privately armed and equipped individuals, working under government contracts, to seize property and detain or punish cybercriminals deemed a threat to the United States. The types of crimes targeted include:
- Cryptocurrency theft
- Ransomware attacks
- Identity theft
- Unauthorized computer access for gathering sensitive information
- Online password trafficking
- Installing malicious code to compromise computers
The bill characterizes these offenses as "acts of war" by individuals, organized crime groups, or foreign governments. By invoking a legal concept last employed in the 18th century, the proposal could have significant implications for US cybersecurity policy and the future handling of seized digital assets.
Crypto Seizures Rise as Government Increases Action
The legislation comes amid a growing wave of cyberattacks and crypto theft incidents. In recent months, US agencies have actively pursued major ransomware groups. In July, federal authorities filed a civil complaint for over $2.3 million in crypto seized by the Dallas division of the FBI from the Chaos ransomware group. The Department of Justice (DOJ) also seized funds from BlackSuit, another ransomware organization, during the same month.
In August, the DOJ announced the forfeiture of $2.8 million in crypto from a wallet held by Ianis Aleksandrovich Antropenko, who was accused of targeting individuals and businesses with ransomware attacks.
Policy Implications and Next Steps
The proposed act would allow compensation for private cyber operators through budget-neutral means or by allowing them to retain some of the assets seized. This follows a recent executive order signed in January by President Donald Trump, who emphasized asset forfeiture as a central strategy in the fight against cybercrime.
As Congress considers Schweikert�s bill, experts note the potential for a dramatic shift in how the US engages with emerging cyber threats, especially those linked to cryptocurrencies. The outcome could affect both domestic cybersecurity policy and the global fight against digital financial crime.
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