The latest news and top stories on the Secret Service. A prominent Washington DC-based federal law enforcement agency, the US Secret Service is dedicated to two primary missions: protecting the US President, Vice President and other dignitaries, and investigating financial and cyber crimes. Its main areas of focus include protective operations and safeguarding the nation’s financial infrastructure. Established in 1865 to combat counterfeiting, its protective role expanded after 1901. The agency faced criticism for operational failures during a 2024 assassination attempt on President Trump, highlighting communication and resource issues.