US businesses and consumers using Kaspersky’s antivirus software products and services have until September 29 to stop using them, following a recent ban by the Biden Administration over national security concerns.
Continued use of Kaspersky products after the deadline poses significant risks as the company will no longer provide support or updates for its products.
Organizations are advised to evaluate their use of Kaspersky software and prepare for long-term cybersecurity regulation changes.
US Concerns About Kaspersky’s Moscow Ties
The US Department of Commerce formally banned Kaspersky from selling its products in the US due to concerns about potential national security risks associated with the company’s ties to Russia.
The ban highlights concerns about Russian companies like Kaspersky being obligated to share customer data with the Russian government.
The ban is a result of the Commerce Department’s actions under the 2019 Executive Order on Securing the Information and Communications Technology and Services Supply Chain.
Death Knell for Kaspersky in the US?
The recent actions by the US government are likely to mark the end of Kaspersky’s operations in the country due to long-standing national security concerns.
The ban on Kaspersky products for US federal agencies, combined with the recent restrictions on private sector sales, indicate a comprehensive block on the company’s operations in the US.
Countdown to Kaspersky Sunset
Organizations are advised to replace Kaspersky software and monitor network security for any residual risks associated with the software.
Companies should be cautious about root-level access points left by antivirus software and consider replacing devices that previously used Kaspersky products.
