Kaspersky defends force-replacing its security software without users' explicit consent
That lack of user interaction — or request for consent — is what confused and concerned some former Kaspersky customers.
Earlier this week, some U.S. customers of Kaspersky’s antivirus were surprised to find out that the Russian-made software disappeared from their computers and had been replaced by a new antivirus called UltraAV, owned by American company Pango.
The United States government has taken a unprecedented step by banning Russian-based cybersecurity company Kaspersky Lab from selling its software in the country. The ban, which was implemented on July 20, 2020, prohibits Kaspersky from selling any of its products or services in the US, effectively cutting off the company's access to the lucrative American market.
Furthermore, the ban also restricts Kaspersky from providing subsequent security updates to its existing customers in the US, a move that will take effect on September 29, 2020. This means that Kaspersky's existing customers in the US will no longer receive critical security patches and updates, leaving their systems vulnerable to potential cyber threats.
The decision to ban Kaspersky is likely a result of long-standing concerns over the company's alleged ties to the Russian government. These concerns have been fueled by reports of Kaspersky's close relationships with Russian intelligence agencies and its alleged willingness to cooperate with Russian authorities. Some experts have even accused Kaspersky of being vulnerable to Russian government manipulation, potentially allowing them to access sensitive US data.
The ban has significant implications for Kaspersky's business in the US, where the company has a significant presence and a large customer base. The loss of access to the US market, combined with the inability to provide updates to existing customers, could lead to a significant loss of revenue and market share for the company. This could have a Ripple effect throughout the cybersecurity industry, as Kaspersky is one of the largest and most well-known cybersecurity companies in the world.
The ban also raises serious questions about the security and integrity of Kaspersky's products, and whether they can be trusted to protect US data. Many experts have long been skeptical of Kaspersky's claims of independence and have questioned the company's ability to resist Russian government pressure. The ban has effectively validated these concerns, and it is likely that Kaspersky's reputation will suffer as a result.
Overall, the ban on Kaspersky is a significant development in the cybersecurity landscape, and its implications will be closely watched by the industry and the public. The move is a clear indication that the US government is willing to take bold action to protect its national security and the security of its citizens, even if it means disrupting the business of a major cybersecurity company.