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"Kaspersky Lab" lost access to Google Play due to US restrictions
Tech Optimizer
October 8, 2024

“Kaspersky Lab” lost access to Google Play due to US restrictions

Google has removed Kaspersky Lab's antivirus software from its Google Play store and closed the company's developer account, following U.S. restrictions imposed on September 29. Kaspersky Lab has criticized this decision as an "over-interpretation" of the restrictions, asserting that the regulations do not ban the sale and distribution of its products outside the U.S. Users who previously installed the app can still use it but will not receive updates or be able to reinstall it. The removal was first noted by users on September 27, with Kaspersky confirming it two days later. Google cited the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security sanctions as the reason for the removal. These sanctions led Kaspersky Lab to stop operations in the U.S. market and switch to alternative antivirus solutions from UltraAV without notifying users.
Antivirus Software Kaspersky Automatically Switching to UltraAV - CIO News
Tech Optimizer
October 1, 2024

Antivirus Software Kaspersky Automatically Switching to UltraAV – CIO News

Kaspersky antivirus software users in the United States will transition to UltraAV due to Kaspersky's exit from the US market following Department of Commerce sanctions. Kaspersky has communicated this change via email, ensuring a seamless transition for eligible users. The transition will occur in phases to maintain protection, and UltraAV's software includes features like a password manager, VPN, and identity theft protection for up to 20 devices (excluding iOS). Users will receive instructions for account activation, with no changes to invoicing or pricing. Notifications about the transition began on September 5, and Kaspersky support will end after September 30.
US-based Kaspersky users startled by unexpected UltraAV installation - Help Net Security
Tech Optimizer
September 25, 2024

US-based Kaspersky users startled by unexpected UltraAV installation – Help Net Security

US-based Kaspersky customers have expressed concern after UltraAV software unexpectedly appeared on their devices due to a poorly managed transition process following a nationwide ban on Kaspersky antivirus solutions by the US Department of Commerce, effective in late September 2024. Kaspersky announced a partnership with UltraAV and a transition plan, but communication was unclear, leading to confusion among users. Some received emails about activating new accounts, while others did not. A software update rolled out on September 19 resulted in UltraAV being installed without user consent, causing suspicions of malware. UltraAV's FAQ indicated that the software is activated on Windows systems, while Mac, Android, and iOS users must download it manually. Users are considering canceling subscriptions and uninstalling UltraAV and UltraVPN due to trust issues. Rob Joyce, former NSA Director of Cybersecurity, warned about the risks of granting root-level access to software, emphasizing the need for caution in trusting such solutions.
US Kaspersky customers startled by forced switch to 'rando' AV software
Tech Optimizer
September 25, 2024

US Kaspersky customers startled by forced switch to ‘rando’ AV software

Kaspersky customers in the United States are experiencing an automatic transition to UltraAV antivirus software, developed by Pango Group, following a ban on Kaspersky products by the Biden administration due to security risks. Many users were surprised and frustrated by the abrupt switch, discovering unfamiliar software installed on their devices without prior notice. Complaints have surfaced on social media and Kaspersky's support forum regarding the lack of information about UltraAV and concerns over the transition process. The Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security identified Kaspersky's products as potential security risks, leading to the ban. Kaspersky announced that updates to its software would cease by September 29, and although Pango stated that notifications were sent to customers, many reported not receiving them. Customers had the option to opt out of the transition by contacting customer service, but many feel the process could have been handled more effectively.
Kaspersky Rolls Back for US Customers, Makes Way for UltraAV
Tech Optimizer
September 24, 2024

Kaspersky Rolls Back for US Customers, Makes Way for UltraAV

Kaspersky has withdrawn its anti-malware software from US customers due to a ban by the US Department of Commerce and has partnered with UltraAV to provide automatic replacements. Following its addition to the Entity List in June, Kaspersky ceased US operations and laid off its workforce. The Biden administration's ban was based on national security concerns. In September, Kaspersky informed customers about the transition to UltraAV, but communication was unclear, leading to user confusion. Some users expressed dissatisfaction with UltraAV, citing trust issues and difficulties with system scans. The transition took effect on September 19, with Kaspersky assuring customers of maintained security standards. Users have shared instructions for removing UltraAV, but the effectiveness of these solutions is uncertain.
Kaspersky Users in US Find Antivirus Software Automatically Replaced
Tech Optimizer
September 24, 2024

Kaspersky Users in US Find Antivirus Software Automatically Replaced

Kaspersky customers in the United States have had their antivirus software replaced by UltraAV due to the U.S. Department of Commerce prohibiting Kaspersky from selling or updating certain products. The transition occurred through a software update on September 19, automatically replacing Kaspersky’s software to maintain uninterrupted security services. UltraAV offers features comparable to Kaspersky, including antivirus protection, VPN, password manager, and identity theft protection. Approximately 1 million users are affected by this change, and Kaspersky has assured customers that they will continue to receive reliable antivirus services under their existing subscriptions. However, some users have expressed concerns about the suddenness of the transition and the reputation of UltraAV, which is owned by Pango Group and has limited independent reviews available.
US decision to ban sale of Russian antivirus software
Tech Optimizer
June 22, 2024

US decision to ban sale of Russian antivirus software

The United States has banned the sale of antivirus software created by the Moscow-based cybersecurity company Kaspersky due to national security concerns related to the Russian government's potential influence over the company's operations.
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