Justice Department Establishes New National Security Cyber Section to Combat Cyber Threats

The United States Justice Department has unveiled its latest initiative in the fight against cyber threats with the creation of the National Security Cyber Section, commonly referred to as NatSec Cyber. This newly established litigating section, which has received congressional approval, is a direct response to the key findings outlined in Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco's Comprehensive Cyber Review in July of 2022.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division expressed the importance of NatSec Cyber, stating, "This new section will allow NSD to increase the scale and speed of disruption campaigns and prosecutions of nation-state threat actors, state-sponsored cybercriminals, associated money launderers, and other cyber-enabled threats to national security."

The primary objective of the National Security Cyber Section is to enhance the Justice Department's capability to detect, disrupt, and respond to malicious cyber activities. It aims to foster collaboration not only within the Department but also across various government agencies, addressing the increasingly sophisticated and aggressive cyber threats posed by hostile nation-state adversaries. By working closely with key partners such as the Criminal Division's Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and the FBI's Cyber Division, the Section will facilitate information sharing and coordination to effectively combat cyber threats.

Assistant Attorney General Olsen emphasized the importance of NatSec Cyber as an incubator for early-stage cases, allowing for intensive investigative work and providing the necessary time and resources to respond to highly technical cyber threats.

The establishment of the National Security Cyber Section builds upon recent successes in identifying, addressing, and eliminating national security cyber threats. Notably, the Justice Department has made significant strides in charging alleged cybercriminals involved in ransomware attacks against critical U.S. infrastructure. Furthermore, they have disrupted the operations of the Russian government's primary cyberespionage malware tool.

With the launch of the National Security Cyber Section, the Justice Department aims to bolster its ability to confront and neutralize cyber threats to national security. This proactive approach will ensure the protection of critical systems, infrastructures, and sensitive information, while strengthening the collaborative efforts between federal agencies, U.S. Attorneys' Offices, and FBI Field Offices nationwide.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the Justice Department remains committed to staying at the forefront of cybersecurity, safeguarding the nation's interests, and promoting the security and well-being of its citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.