The Biden administration has announced a ban on US companies and citizens from using software made by Russian cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab, citing national security concerns. Commerce Department Secretary Gina stated that the prohibition includes the sale of software products by Kaspersky Lab within the US.
Previously installed software from the company can still be used, but updates will no longer be available. This move follows reports that the Biden administration was preparing to issue an order preventing the use of Kaspersky software in the US.
During the announcement, Raimondo told reporters, “We are announcing that after an extremely thorough investigation, we are taking action… which will prohibit Kaspersky Lab and all of its affiliates from providing cybersecurity and antivirus software in the United States.”
The US government has also added three Kaspersky entities to the Entity List, preventing them from selling or updating software in the US. This decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to block Americans from using technology considered a national security risk.
Kaspersky Lab responded to the Commerce ruling, stating, “Kaspersky does not engage in activities which threaten US national security.” The company plans to pursue legal options to maintain its operations and relationships.
While US government agencies are already banned from using Kaspersky Lab software, this action marks the first time private companies are also prohibited. US officials have long alleged that the Russian government could exploit Kaspersky Lab for data collection or surveillance, an accusation the company denies.
The Commerce Department emphasized the need for the ban to protect Americans and their personal data from potential threats. There are no specific instances cited of Russian government exploitation of Kaspersky in the agency’s final determination, but the threat is considered more than theoretical.
Kaspersky Lab, founded in Moscow in 1997, is known for its top-tier cybersecurity research. Concerns about the company’s ties to the Russian government, particularly Eugene Kaspersky, have been raised by US officials.
Eugene Kaspersky, the co-founder of Kaspersky Lab, denies any unethical affiliations with the Russian government. The company has faced scrutiny amid growing geopolitical tensions between the West and Russia.
This story will be updated with additional details and comments from Kaspersky Lab.
