On Thursday, the U.S. Commerce Department announced a complete prohibition on the utilization of a Russian-supported cybersecurity software in the United States. The ban comes as a result of the Biden administration’s claim that the Russian government has been conducting influence operations through the software.
U.S. officials have expressed concern about the software of Kaspersky Lab as early as 2017. According to them, the Russian government’s total access to Kaspersky systems under their law means they can also access the data of all of its customers.
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During a call with reporters on Thursday, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo expressed concerns over Russia’s ability and willingness to utilize Russian companies like Kaspersky for the purpose of gathering and weaponizing personal information belonging to Americans. Raimondo stated that Russia has already demonstrated its capacity to do so, and emphasized the need to be vigilant in preventing any further exploitation of personal data.
According to Raimondo, the Bureau of Industry and Security within the Commerce Department had the power to prohibit Kaspersky thanks to its updated authorities.
According to Raimondo, Kaspersky has been a subject of national security worries for a long time and was prohibited from multiple government systems as early as 2017. She further explained that even though they explored all possible options, they concluded that a complete ban was necessary to safeguard American citizens and their personal data, considering the Russian government’s persistent aggressive cyber capabilities and its ability to influence Kaspersky’s operations.
Starting July 20th, Kaspersky is no longer allowed to enter into any new agreements within the United States due to the recent ban. However, the existing customers can still receive cyber and antivirus software until September 29th. Unfortunately, after that date, Kaspersky will be unable to provide security updates, resulting in a gradual degradation of software services according to the rule.
According to the commerce secretary, Raimondo, it is important to note that the use of existing Kaspersky products by Americans and U.S. businesses does not violate any laws. However, it is imperative to keep in mind that after September 30th, they will no longer be able to update their products. As a precautionary measure, Raimondo strongly urges individuals and businesses to switch to alternative software immediately to ensure the protection of their data and loved ones.
In a previous report by ABC News, the government expressed its concerns regarding Kaspersky. Eugene Kaspersky, the head of Kaspersky Lab, denied any influence from Russia on the software company.
During a 2017 interview with ABC News, Kapersky refuted U.S. government warnings regarding his company, stating that they were “wrong advice.” He also denied any rumors of a partnership between his company and government agencies, stating that they were false.
