A new US bill, the Scam Farms Marque and Reprisal Authorization Act of 2025, seeks to address cybercrime through a unique approach. It empowers private cyber experts, known as ’21st-century privateers,’ to combat digital threats, including crypto crimes by targeting criminal actors hiding in foreign jurisdictions. This legislation could fundamentally alter the landscape of cybersecurity and impact how governments handle crypto assets. The bill allows for private actors to seize assets and disrupt attacks like ransomware. The initiative has been spearheaded by Rep. David Schweikert of Arizona, who emphasizes protecting Americans from digital criminals operating beyond traditional legal boundaries. 250 million dollars in cryptocurrency have already been seized due to recent operations. The bill’s lack of clarity regarding how seized assets will be distributed raises concerns about incentives for private cyber efforts. Legal precedents referencing letters of marque tie back to the War of 1812, adapted now for modern-day cyber threats. This historical framework could drive a shift in how crypto enforcement and compliance are managed.