The United States has taken decisive action to prohibit the sale of antivirus software produced by the Russian company Kaspersky, citing concerns over its ties to the Kremlin. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo highlighted the risks posed by Moscow’s influence over the firm, emphasizing potential threats to American infrastructure and services.
According to Raimondo, the US government’s decision stems from Russia’s capability and intention to exploit personal data of Americans for strategic purposes. Consequently, Kaspersky will no longer be permitted to sell its software in the US or provide updates to existing users, the Commerce Department announced.
In response to the ban, Kaspersky declared its intention to explore all available legal avenues to contest the decision, firmly denying any activities that might jeopardize US security.
This move utilizes powers established during the Trump administration, allowing restrictions on transactions between US entities and technology firms from nations deemed as “foreign adversaries,” such as Russia and China. Effective from September 29, the plan will prevent software updates, resale, and licensing of Kaspersky products, with new business activities restricted within 30 days from the announcement. Violators, including sellers and resellers, face fines imposed by the Commerce Department.
Additionally, the Commerce Department plans to designate two Russian and one UK-based unit of Kaspersky for their alleged cooperation with Russian military intelligence. This action adds to previous regulatory measures against the company, notably in 2017 when the Department of Homeland Security banned its flagship antivirus software from federal networks over similar concerns about Russian ties.
Headquartered in Moscow with a global presence spanning 31 countries, Kaspersky serves over 400 million users and 270,000 corporate clients worldwide. While the exact number of affected US customers remains confidential, a Commerce Department official hinted at its significance, encompassing state and local governments as well as entities in telecommunications, power, and healthcare sectors.
The ban marks another chapter in the ongoing scrutiny of Kaspersky by US regulators, underscoring the complexities of cybersecurity and geopolitical tensions in the digital age.
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