U.S. Prohibits Use of Kaspersky Antivirus Security Software
International antivirus brand Kaspersky once held a decent reputation globally. Yet, suspicions lingered for years that the program could serve as a gateway for Russian spy agencies. The US administration is now taking decisive action.
The US administration has prohibited the use of Russian antivirus software Kaspersky. An extensive probe concluded that this measure is essential to alleviate national security concerns, as asserted by a subdivision of the US Department of Commerce.
As of July 20, sales of Kaspersky software to American businesses and consumers are going to be prohibited. From September 29, Kaspersky will no longer be authorized to supply software updates, making the program largely ineffective against emerging threats. The Office for Industrial and Security Cooperation clarified that this transition period would grant customers adequate time to switch to alternative providers.
The ban is attributed to the alleged cyber attack capabilities of the Russian government and its ability to manipulate Kaspersky's operations. The software is said to gather data from US firms and residents that may be exploited by the Russian government, according to the agency.
Kaspersky, once well-respected for PC security worldwide, has faced turbulent waters in the West for years. In the US, the software has been banned on government computers since 2017, and the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has advised against using the software since summer 2022. According to the BSI, a Russian tech manufacturer could conduct offensive operations unknowingly, target systems for attack, or be used unwittingly as a victim of a cyber attack or as a tool for attacks against its own customers. Kaspersky has continually denied all accusations, specifically denying any ties to Russian intelligence services.
