The FBI’s Cyber Action Team (CAT) is a specialized rapid response unit designed to tackle cyber threats that pose risks to public safety, national security, and critical infrastructure. Established in 2005, CAT was created in response to the growing number of complex hacking investigations that required swift and specialized attention. The team consists of 65 core members, including special agents, computer scientists, intelligence analysts, and hackers, capable of deploying globally within hours.
CAT’s primary mission is to respond to cyber incidents that could impact critical sectors such as hospitals, power companies, and schools. Their expertise allows them to address a wide range of cyber threats, ensuring that essential services and national security are protected from malicious attacks. The team’s ability to quickly mobilize makes them a crucial asset in the fight against cybercrime.
The role of CAT became more prominent in 2016 following the signing of Presidential Policy Directive 41, which established the principles by which the federal government would respond to cyber incidents. This directive appointed the FBI as the lead agency for investigating such incidents, thereby clarifying and elevating CAT’s role within the broader framework of national cybersecurity efforts.
Despite its significant responsibilities, CAT has largely operated under the radar, focusing on its mission without much media attention. However, with the increasing frequency and severity of cyber threats, the importance of CAT’s work has become more evident, highlighting the critical role this team plays in protecting the nation’s digital infrastructure.
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