US Bans Russian Company Kaspersky’s Software Over Security Concerns

The US Department of Commerce announced a ban on the sale of antivirus software from Moscow-based cybersecurity firm Kaspersky. The decision stems from concerns over national security risks posed by the company’s operations in the US. In a statement by US Department of Commerce cited the Russian government’s offensive cyber capabilities and its potential influence over Kaspersky’s operations as key factors. “Kaspersky will generally no longer be able to, among other activities, sell its software within the US or provide updates to software already in use.”

The Commerce Department said it imposed the “first of its kind” ban, arguing that Kaspersky threatens U.S. national security and users’ privacy because the company is based in Russia. “Private and professional users of Kaspersky’s widely installed antivirus software should find an alternative due to the risk,” the Department added.

“Russia has shown time and again they have the capability and intent to exploit Russian companies, like Kaspersky Lab, to collect and weaponise sensitive US information, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to safeguard US national security and the American people,” Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said.

The US government has announced a ban on the sale of Kaspersky software starting July 20, citing cybersecurity risks. While existing users can receive software updates until September 29, concerns over trojans and spyware persist.

Since 2017, installation on government devices has been prohibited in the US. Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security also advises against using Kaspersky products. Despite denials from Kaspersky, claiming independence from the Russian government, suspicions remain.