Adm. Michael S. Rogers, head of U.S. Cyber command, believes criminals groups are being used to conduct cybercriminal activities against the United States on behalf of foreign governments. The Admiral did not point to specific countries, but did say Russian government hacking endeavors bear resemblance to cybercriminal practices. With a budget of over $500 million approved for 2016, USCYBERCOM is expected to reach operational peak by fall 2018. These statements were made before the House Armed Services Committee when requesting a new budget.”]