If you are a user of Kaspersky antivirus software in the United States, you may soon notice a significant change in your cybersecurity protection. The Moscow-based cybersecurity firm has begun the process of replacing its software with that of UltraAV, a subsidiary of the Burlington, Massachusetts-based Pango Group. This transition comes in light of the Department of Commerce’s sanctions that have led Kaspersky to exit the US market.
Kaspersky communicated this switch to its customers via email, although reports suggest that some users are still caught off guard by the sudden change. In a statement to CNET, Kaspersky emphasized its commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for its US clientele by partnering with UltraAV. The company stated, “Information about the transition has been communicated to all US users eligible for the replacement in a series of email communications by Kaspersky and UltraAV.”
Details of the Transition
The transition is being executed in phases to maintain uninterrupted protection for users during Kaspersky’s departure from the market. Comprehensive information regarding the switch and the features of the UltraAV software can be found on a dedicated webpage. UltraAV’s offering includes a password manager, VPN, and identity theft protection, supporting up to 20 devices, although iOS devices are excluded from this count. However, users can access the UltraVPN app for iOS devices.
UltraAV has assured consumers that they will receive detailed instructions on how to activate their new accounts, and importantly, there will be no changes to invoicing or pricing. In a feature comparison, UltraAV highlights several advantages over Kaspersky, including real-time authentication alerts, high-risk transaction monitoring, and a million identity theft insurance policy. However, it is worth noting that UltraAV does not offer camera protection or online payment protection.
Customers began receiving notifications about this transition on September 5, with additional alerts displayed within the Kaspersky app and account sites. According to UltraAV’s FAQ, Kaspersky support and updates will cease after September 30, marking a definitive end to the software’s availability in the United States.
