U.S. Prohibits Use of Kaspersky Anti-virus Security Software
International antivirus giant Kaspersky once enjoyed a positive global reputation. However, concerns have lingered for years that the software might serve as a backdoor for Russian intelligence agencies. The U.S. government has finally made a move.
The U.S. government has prohibited the use of Russian antivirus software, Kaspersky, due to national security concerns. This ban is the result of an extensive investigation conducted by a sub-agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
starting July 20, sales of Kaspersky software to both companies and consumers in the U.S. will be prohibited. From September 29, Kaspersky will no longer be able to provide updates, effectively rendering the software ineffective against new threats. The Office for Industry and Security has stated that this transition period is to give customers time to switch to alternative providers.
The ban is reportedly due to the potential cyber-attack capabilities of the Russian government and its influence over Kaspersky's activities. There are concerns that the company's software may collect sensitive information from U.S. companies and citizens, which could be misused by the Russian government.
For years, Kaspersky, known internationally as a PC security expert, has faced a rocky road in the West. Installing the software on government computers has been forbidden in the U.S. since 2017, and the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has advised against using the software since summer 2022. The BSI believes that a Russian IT company could carry out attacks unwillingly, be forced to target systems, or even be used as a tool for attacks against its own customers. Kaspersky has consistently denied all allegations, specifically dismissing any connections to Russian intelligence services.
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The ban on Kaspersky antivirus software in the USA is fueled by concerns about potential espionage activities linked to Russian intelligence agencies. This has led to allegations that Kaspersky's software could collect sensitive information and be used for cyberwar against the USA. Russia, meanwhile, has protested the ban, viewing it as an unjustified attack on its cybersecurity industry.
