Rajeev Raghavan Joins Crowell & Moring to Boost Cybersecurity Practice

Former FBI Counsel Enhances Cybersecurity Expertise at Crowell & Moring

In a strategic move to bolster its Privacy and Cybersecurity Group, Crowell & Moring has welcomed Rajeev Raghavan, a formidable former Special Counsel to the Director of the FBI. Raghavan embarks on this new chapter with over 15 years of rich experience dealing with cybercrime, regulatory challenges, and technology enforcement. His unique combination of legal and technical expertise positions him as a pivotal asset for clients navigating the increasingly complex landscape of cybersecurity.

As someone who once served as a key advisor within the FBI, Raghavan provided invaluable insight on pressing cyber initiatives, including strategies related to artificial intelligence and the modernization of security protocols. His contributions were crucial in shaping the FBI's anti-cybercrime tactics and enhancing internal security measures. This background empowers him to guide clients through intricate cybersecurity issues and ensure compliance with evolving legal regulations.

At Crowell & Moring, Raghavan's focus will be on tackling multifaceted challenges that span the intersection of law, technology, and public policy. He aims to offer comprehensive assistance in high-stakes scenarios involving cybersecurity, privacy, and national security. Furthermore, he will conduct data breach investigations, support clients during regulatory inquiries, and engage in congressional investigations. Raghavan will work collaboratively with organizations to establish robust risk management strategies, create tailored incident response plans, set up effective cybersecurity protocols, and refine compliance programs to anticipate potential threats.

Prior to his tenure at the FBI, Raghavan was an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the District of Maryland. His prosecutorial experience covered a wide array of federal criminal cases, including high-profile cybercrime incidents linked to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and illicit cryptocurrency activities. Among his notable accomplishments was the dismantling of WT1SHOP, a notorious online platform for stolen credentials, where he played an instrumental role in international cooperation and operation execution.

Recognized for his contribution to national security and cyber law, Raghavan received the 2021 U.S. Attorney's Office FBI Service Award and accolades from the USPS due to his extensive investigations into various financial crimes, including healthcare fraud and money laundering.

As he transitions to his role at Crowell & Moring, Raghavan expresses his eagerness to leverage his cross-sector experiences and technical background to provide his clients with creative and effective responses to crisis situations and emerging threats. He emphasizes the necessity for organizations to understand that cyber and privacy risks are fundamentally business risks that require a sophisticated blend of legal insight and technical knowledge.

Jeffrey L. Poston, co-chair of the firm's Privacy and Cybersecurity Group, lauds Raghavan’s ability to navigate both legal and technological spheres, asserting its significance in today’s fast-paced environment where businesses are continually confronted by emerging technologies, regulatory demands, and potential cyber threats. With Raghavan's joining, Crowell & Moring is firmly positioned to guide its clients through the intricate challenges posed by modern cyber risks, ensuring their preparedness to face a dynamically evolving landscape.

Before his esteemed legal career, Raghavan honed technical skills as a computer programmer, further enriching his capabilities as a legal professional. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Dayton, a master’s from the University of Michigan, and a law degree, cum laude, from the University of Michigan Law School. His experience also includes stints at premier law firms like Covington & Burling and Linklaters, where he represented clients in significant regulatory scrutiny and civil litigation matters.

Crowell & Moring is celebrated for its commitment to addressing complex regulatory and compliance challenges while providing exceptional legal services across diverse sectors. The addition of Rajeev Raghavan is a testament to the firm’s dedication to delivering innovative solutions to the pressing concerns of modern businesses, reaffirming its role as a leader in the legal industry.