US Bans Sale of Kaspersky Software Over Security Concerns Amid Russian Cyberattacks

The US has announced on Thursday its decision to prohibit the sale of antivirus software from Russia’s Kaspersky Lab in the United States. This action stems from concerns that the company’s ties to Moscow pose significant risks, particularly due to its access to sensitive systems in American computers.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized these risks during a briefing with reporters, highlighting the potential for Kaspersky software to compromise information security or install malicious software through privileged access.

According to Raimondo, Russia has demonstrated its capability and intent to exploit Russian companies like Kaspersky for the purpose of collecting and potentially weaponizing personal information of Americans. Kaspersky Lab and the Russian Embassy did not provide comments on the announcement. Previously, Kaspersky has maintained it operates independently with no affiliations to the Russian government.

The new policy utilizes expansive powers established during the Trump administration, including placing three units of Kaspersky Lab on a trade restriction list. Raimondo also noted the administration’s intention to prevent potential cyber threats from Russian sources amidst heightened tensions related to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and limitations on further sanctions the US can impose.

The restrictions will include a ban on sales of Kaspersky software in the US, as well as prohibitions on software updates, resales, and licensing, with implementation set to begin on September 29, allowing businesses time to find alternative solutions.