Escalating Security Concerns
The U.S. government has taken decisive action to ban the sale of Kaspersky antivirus software within the country, citing significant national security risks associated with its Russian origins.
The ban, effective July 20, 2024, prohibits Kaspersky Lab from selling its products to American consumers and businesses. The move underscores longstanding fears that the Moscow-based company could potentially collaborate with Russian intelligence agencies, compromising U.S. cybersecurity.
Government’s Justification
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized that the decision was rooted in Russia’s demonstrated capability and intent to exploit companies like Kaspersky for espionage purposes. She stated, “Russia has shown it has the capacity, and even more than that, the intent to exploit Russian companies like Kaspersky to collect and weaponize the personal information of Americans.”
Impact on Current Users
Existing users of Kaspersky software are not currently in violation of the law but are strongly advised to switch to alternative cybersecurity providers immediately. Raimondo warned of impending degradation in service for current users after September 29, 2024, when Kaspersky will be barred from providing software updates to U.S. customers.
Government Outreach and Support
To facilitate the transition, the U.S. government plans to establish a dedicated website and collaborate with agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and the Justice Department to inform affected consumers and businesses. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) will specifically assist critical infrastructure organizations currently using Kaspersky software to find suitable alternatives.
The Commerce Department refrained from detailing specific incidents that prompted the ban but reiterated the overarching concern regarding potential exploitation by Russian authorities. As the deadline approaches, affected entities are urged to swiftly transition away from Kaspersky to safeguard their data and mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with foreign state influence.
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- Source: https://timesnext.com/us-bans-sale-kaspersky-software-citing-security-risks/
