In a significant move that has stirred discussions within the tech community, Google has taken the step of removing Kaspersky Lab’s antivirus software from its Google Play store, alongside the closure of the company’s developer account. This action comes just days ahead of the deadline set by U.S. restrictions, which were imposed on September 29.
Here’s What We Know
Kaspersky Lab has publicly expressed its discontent with this decision, labeling it an “over-interpretation” of the existing restrictions. The company contends that the regulations do not explicitly prohibit the sale and distribution of its products outside the United States. While users who had previously installed the app from Google Play will still be able to use it, they will no longer receive updates, nor will they be able to reinstall the application.
The first signs of the app’s removal were noted by users on September 27, with Kaspersky officials confirming the development two days later. Google has acknowledged the removal, attributing it to the sanctions imposed by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security.
These sanctions, which were enacted in June, prompted Kaspersky Lab to cease its operations within the U.S. market. In a swift response, the company transitioned its offerings to alternative antivirus solutions provided by UltraAV, doing so without prior notice to its users.
Source: The Verge, Kaspersky
