Ministry of Justice unveils strategic approach to combating cybercrime

Nicole M. Argentieri, Deputy Assistant Attorney General and Chief of the Criminal Division, addressed a symposium organized by the Center for Strategic and International Studies and the Division of Computer Crime and Intellectual Property (CCIPS). Her comments focused on the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence in law enforcement.

Argentieri highlighted how AI technologies can improve investigations, help connect data points in large data sets and identify sources of seized narcotics. However, she also noted that AI brings new challenges as criminals use it to more easily commit crimes.

“The department has already deployed AI to review reports of potential crimes,” Argentieri said. She warned that generative AI could be misused to defraud individuals or create child sexual abuse material from innocent images.

In response to these threats, Argentieri announced the release of a “new strategic approach to combating cybercrime,” available at cybercrime.gov. This approach aims to disrupt criminal activity using all available tools, develop laws to effectively prosecute cybercrime, and promote cybersecurity through public education.

The strategy includes three objectives: deterring major cybercrime activities, such as ransomware; ensure effective tools to combat cybercrime while protecting civil rights; and advancing national cybersecurity through partnerships.

Argentieri highlighted recent successes and mentioned actions against ransomware groups LockBit and AlphV/Blackcat, which targeted more than 2,000 victims. The division also dismantled botnets such as 911 S5, which were used in various fraudulent activities worldwide.

Furthermore, emphasis is placed on international cooperation in combating transnational cybercrime. “We have always relied on international partnerships in our fight against cybercrime,” said Argentieri. The Criminal Division has participated in negotiations for an international treaty that encourages responsible government use of AI.

On promoting cybersecurity knowledge, Argentieri praised companies developing AI products with security in mind. She urged companies that are not part of voluntary commitments with the White House to consider implementing vulnerability disclosure programs.

The Criminal Division plans further support for AI research by revising its Vulnerability Disclosure Framework. This update will help organizations address vulnerabilities associated with both IT systems and AI technologies, while minimizing legal risks for researchers.

Concluding her remarks, Argentieri reiterated that while AI can significantly support law enforcement efforts, it also poses challenges when misused by criminals. She reaffirmed the Criminal Division’s commitment to addressing these issues together with domestic and international partners.