US Announces Ban on Sale of Kaspersky Software

The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced a ban on the sale of antivirus software by Russia's Kaspersky Lab.

In a call with reporters on Thursday, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said that Moscow's influence over the company was found to be a significant risk. The software's privileged access to computer systems could allow it to steal sensitive information, install malware, or withhold critical updates.

"Russia has shown it has the capacity and... the intent to exploit Russian companies like Kaspersky to collect and weaponize the personal information of Americans and that is why we are compelled to take the action that we are taking today," Raimondo said on the call.


The restriction on sales of Kaspersky software which also bans downloads of software updates, resales, and licensing, will take effect on September 29, 2024. This will give American businesses time to find alternatives. Sale of products that integrate Kaspersky technology will also be barred.

Additionally, the End-User Review Committee (ERC), composed of representatives of the Departments of Commerce (Chair), State, Defense, Energy and, where appropriate, the Treasury, has added three Kaspersky entities to the Entity List, for acting contrary to the national security or foreign policy interests of the United States.

The ERC determined to add AO Kaspersky Lab and OOO Kaspersky Group, under the destination of Russia, and Kaspersky Labs Limited, under the destination of United Kingdom, to the Entity List. These entities are being added for their cooperation with Russian military and intelligence authorities in support of the Russian government's cyber intelligence objectives. This activity is contrary to U.S. national security and foreign policy interests under § 744.11 of the EAR. A license for these entities will be required for all items subject to the EAR; the licenses will be reviewed under a presumption of denial.

More details at the links below!


Read More [via Reuters]