The US, via the Biden administration, has announced plans to ban antivirus software made by Russian-based Kaspersky Lab. The company will not be able to sell its products to new customers in the country starting in July, and cannot provide service to current customers after September.
According to US commerce secretary Gina Raimondo, Russia’s influence over Kaspersky poses a significant security risk. The decision to ban the company’s products stems from concerns that its software’s deep access to computer systems could be exploited to steal sensitive information or install malware. This is especially given the fact that its customer base include critical infrastructure providers and state and local governments.
Reuters reports that Kaspersky has responded by arguing that the decision is driven by the current geopolitical climate and theoretical concerns rather than a thorough evaluation of its products and services. The company maintains that its operations do not threaten US national security and plans to pursue legal options to maintain its business.
The authority to block or restrict access to technology and software from countries classified as “foreign adversaries” originates from the Trump administration. Raimondo adds that the commerce department will also entity list two Russian and one UK-based unit of Kaspersky for allegedly cooperating with Russian military intelligence to support Moscow’s cyber intelligence goals.
The new restrictions, which will take effect on September 29, provide a 100-day window for businesses to find alternatives, while new US business for Kaspersky will be blocked 30 days after the restrictions are announced. Additionally, sales of white-labelled products integrating Kaspersky software will be barred.
(Source: Reuters)
