The U.S. Government has taken a significant step in addressing the growing threat of online fraud with the release of a new Executive Order titled Combating Cybercrime, Fraud, and Predatory Schemes Against American Citizens. The order formally recognises scams, referred to as “predatory schemes”, as a national priority and outlines a more coordinated, whole-of-government response.
Until now, federal anti-fraud efforts have been fragmented across agencies and focused primarily on financial crimes and cybersecurity. This Executive Order is the first to name scams, scam centres, and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) as a distinct national policy problem.
Senior officials across State, Treasury, Justice, Homeland Security, and Defense have been directed to submit an Action Plan outlining how the government will target transnational criminal organisations and improve coordination, including partnerships with the private sector.
The Attorney General has also been directed to prioritize the prosecution of cyber-enabled fraud, including scams and sextortion schemes. At the same time, the Department of Homeland Security, through CISA, will provide training and technical support to state and local partners.
The order also places emphasis on victim support and restitution. The Attorney General must provide recommendations for a Victims Restoration Program, enabling the return of seized or forfeited funds to victims.
Finally, the Executive Order introduces consequences for countries that tolerate or host scam operations targeting Americans, including potential diplomatic and economic measures.
While implementation details are still to be defined, the Executive Order establishes a clearer framework for coordination, enforcement, and victim support.
The GASA North America Chapter brings together several leading organizations across the region to address scams and fraud. Learn more about the chapter and membership.
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