Arizona lawmaker David Schweikert has introduced the “Scam Farms Marque and Reprisal Authorization Act of 2025”, aiming to revive 18th-century privateering laws for the digital age. The proposed legislation would allow the US President to issue letters of marque authorizing private individuals or groups to target cybercriminals on behalf of the government.
What Does the Bill Cover?
The proposal targets a wide range of cyber threats, including:
- Crypto theft and ransomware attacks
- Pig butchering scams
- Identity theft and password trafficking
- Malware deployment and unauthorized access to sensitive data
The bill classifies these acts as “unusual and extraordinary threats” to US economic and national security, framing them as acts of war by criminals and hostile entities.
Seized Crypto and National Reserve
If passed, the law could authorize seizure of stolen digital assets, which may later be forfeited to the US government. The assets could contribute to the national Bitcoin and crypto reserve, created under an executive order signed in January 2025 by President Donald Trump.
Crypto Crime Statistics
- Over $142 million in crypto was stolen in July 2025 alone.
- Total stolen crypto this year exceeds $3 billion.
- The FBI recently seized 20 BTC worth $2.3 million during a ransomware investigation.
This bill signals a bold new approach to cybersecurity, blending traditional wartime tactics with modern digital enforcement.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.