Frequently Asked Questions

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Privateering is the authorized seizure of enemy property by a private firm or vessel, the privateering firm is paid from the auction of the enemy property. While privateering is traditionally associated with the maritime domain the Privateer project recognizes how this privateering mechanism can be applied to cyber, space, information and other domains and during peacetime and wartime.

Privateering is legal with a letter of marque in the United States although letters of marque have not been issued by the United States since the War of 1812. The United States has not signed any international agreement banning privateering. Privateering as a mechanism could also be enabled via create contracting opportunities.

No. While privateering has historically been used more in wartime, modern privateering mechanisms and privateering style contracts used in peace time could be used for a variety of purposes such as assisting government agencies to identify and seize property and being paid based off the value of legitimately seized property.

1. First is acquiring expertise and means to facilitate the seizure of an enemy's property. 
2. Acquiring a letter of marque or equivalent authority such as a government contract that authorizes your firm to seize property on behalf of the state while being paid based off the proceeds of seized, forfeited or auctioned property. 
3. Feel free to contact the Privateer Project for any collaboration or provide feedback on becoming a privateer.