US Commerce Department Imposes Ban on Kaspersky Lab Software Sales
In a significant move, the US Commerce Department has announced a ban on all new sales of cybersecurity and antivirus software from Moscow-based Kaspersky Lab, effective from next month. This decision comes amidst growing concerns about foreign-owned security vendors potentially collaborating with adversarial governments.
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized the unprecedented nature of this ban, marking the first time the department has prohibited the sale of a cybersecurity product in the US. The ban, set to begin on July 20, will prevent Kaspersky Lab from selling its software to American customers.
While current US users can continue using Kaspersky Lab products, they will no longer receive updates after September 29. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) will be assisting critical infrastructure organizations in transitioning to alternative security solutions before the deadline.
Alongside the sales ban, the Commerce Department has added three Kaspersky-affiliated entities to its sanctions list, including AO Kaspersky Lab, OOO Kaspersky Group, and Kaspersky Labs Limited.
Kaspersky Lab, a prominent global provider of antivirus software with a vast client base, has faced scrutiny from US officials over concerns about potential collaboration with the Russian government in cyber espionage activities. This latest action follows a 2017 decision to ban Kaspersky Lab products from federal government systems.
Secretary Raimondo justified the ban by citing ongoing cyber threats from the Russian government and its potential influence over Kaspersky’s operations, emphasizing the need to protect American citizens and their data.
In response, Kaspersky Lab has announced plans to explore legal avenues to maintain its operations and relationships, asserting its commitment to not engaging in activities that threaten US national security. The company argues that the Commerce Department’s decision is influenced by geopolitical tensions rather than a comprehensive evaluation of its products and services.
