Kaspersky’s US clients have limited time after government ban

TLDR:

US businesses and consumers using Kaspersky’s antivirus software products and services have until Sept. 29, 2024 to stop using them following a government ban. The ban is due to national security concerns regarding Kaspersky’s ties to Russia. Organizations and individuals that continue to use Kaspersky products past the deadline will no longer receive updates or support. The ban marks the end for Kaspersky in the US, as the company is now restricted from selling to private sector companies and individuals. Customers are advised to seek alternatives immediately.

Article Summary:

US businesses and consumers using Kaspersky’s antivirus software products and services have until Sept. 29, 2024, to stop using them following a government ban due to national security concerns about Kaspersky’s ties to Russia. The ban means that organizations and individuals that use Kaspersky products past the deadline will no longer receive updates or support for the software, putting them at risk.

The US Department of Commerce formally banned Kaspersky from selling its products and services in the US, citing the company’s obligation to turn over customer data to the Russian government. This is the first time the Commerce Department has used its authority under a 2019 Executive Order on Securing the ICT Supply Chain, effectively banning US organizations and individuals from transacting with Kaspersky entities in Russia and the UK.

The ban raises concerns about data theft and the potential weaponization of Kaspersky software, prompting organizations to closely monitor network security suites where Kaspersky was previously installed. It is recommended that organizations identify unmanaged devices running Kaspersky software and consider a ‘rip and replace’ of antivirus software to mitigate security risks.

The US government’s actions this week effectively mark the end for Kaspersky in the US, as the company is now restricted from selling to private sector companies and individuals. With the ban in place, customers are advised to seek alternative antivirus solutions immediately to safeguard their systems and data.

Overall, the ban on Kaspersky in the US highlights the importance of ensuring national security and safeguarding sensitive information from potential threats posed by foreign adversaries.