According to the Commerce Department's statement, Kaspersky Lab, headquartered in Moscow, will no longer be allowed to sell its software or provide updates to existing users in the US. This action comes after a thorough investigation concluded that Kaspersky's continued operations posed a risk due to Russia's ability to potentially influence or direct the company's activities.
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo underscored the decision, stating, "Russia has repeatedly demonstrated its capability and intent to exploit Russian firms like Kaspersky Lab to gather and weaponize sensitive US information."
In response to the ban, Kaspersky Lab defended its operations, asserting that it does not engage in activities that threaten US national security. The company expressed disappointment with the decision, attributing it to current geopolitical tensions rather than any actual security threat posed by its products.
"We do not engage in activities that threaten US national security," Kaspersky Lab stated in a response to Agence France-Presse (AFP). The company further emphasized its contributions to protecting US interests and allies from various cyber threats.
This move represents the first major action taken under an executive order issued during former President Donald Trump's administration, granting the Commerce Department authority to investigate companies deemed potential national security risks.
Secretary Raimondo highlighted that the Commerce Department's decision sends a clear message to adversaries of the United States. "We will act decisively when technology poses a risk to the United States and its citizens," she affirmed.
Despite the ban on sales, Kaspersky will be allowed to continue certain operations in the US until September 29th of this year. This grace period aims to minimize disruption for US consumers and businesses, providing them with time to transition to alternative cybersecurity solutions.
In addition to prohibiting Kaspersky's antivirus software sales, the Commerce Department also added three entities associated with the company to a list of firms raising national security concerns. These entities were identified for their collaboration with Russian military and intelligence entities, supporting the Russian government's cyber intelligence objectives.
The Commerce Department recommended that users switch to alternative vendors for antivirus protection, although individuals and businesses are not prohibited from using Kaspersky products if they choose to do so.
Kaspersky Lab, which operates in 31 countries worldwide and serves millions of users and corporate clients, has been at the center of international scrutiny for years. Concerns about its ties to the Russian government have led several governments and agencies, including the US government, to reassess their use of the company's cybersecurity products.