On Thursday, the United States banned cybersecurity company Kaspersky from selling its software in the country. The Commerce Department announced this decision, citing concerns about Russia’s ability to exploit companies like Kaspersky to collect and weaponize sensitive information.
Based in Moscow, Kaspersky is a popular antivirus software provider that operates in 31 countries and serves millions of users and corporate customers globally. In addition to banning the sale of its antivirus software, the Commerce Department added three entities linked to the company to a list of national security concerns due to their cooperation with Russian military and intelligence authorities.
However, the Commerce Department encouraged users to switch to new providers but did not prohibit them from using Kaspersky products altogether. The ban received criticism from the Kremlin, which accused the US of provoking unfair competition with American companies.
Despite being allowed to continue certain operations in the US until September 29, Kaspersky will no longer be able to sell its software or provide updates for existing customers in the country. This ban on Kaspersky highlights the US government’s commitment to protecting national security interests and preventing potential threats associated with foreign cybersecurity companies.
