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Kaspersky customers

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.
UltraAV says Kaspersky users were moved over for their own good and they knew it was coming
Tech Optimizer
September 25, 2024

UltraAV says Kaspersky users were moved over for their own good and they knew it was coming

Kaspersky U.S. customers have been automatically transitioned to UltraAV due to the Biden administration's announcement to ban Kaspersky Labs from selling or updating antivirus software in the United States effective September 29, 2024. This transition aims to protect users from potential vulnerabilities and minimize the risk of them being left unprotected. Kaspersky Labs began notifying U.S. customers about this change on September 5, using email, in-app notifications, MyKaspersky account pages, and its official website. UltraAV claims to offer comparable protection to Kaspersky, with advanced threat intelligence and techniques developed over more than 20 years, and will include additional features such as identity theft protections. Users can find more information on UltraAV's features and the transition process on its official website.
Kaspersky Exits U.S., Automatically Replaces Software With UltraAV, Raising Concerns
Tech Optimizer
September 25, 2024

Kaspersky Exits U.S., Automatically Replaces Software With UltraAV, Raising Concerns

Kaspersky is withdrawing from the U.S. market and transitioning its users to UltraAV as of September 19, 2024, ahead of its official exit at the end of the month. A software update was rolled out to ensure continuous protection during this transition. Some users reported that their Kaspersky software was automatically uninstalled and replaced by UltraAV without prior notification, although UltraAV stated that notifications were sent to users starting September 5. UltraAV, a U.S.-based company under the Pango Group, has over 25 million active users and aims to provide comparable protection to Kaspersky while offering additional features such as identity theft protection and fraud alerts. The transition follows the Biden administration's announcement regarding Kaspersky's ban from selling or updating antivirus software in the U.S.
Kaspersky customers in the US complain about receiving unsolicited security software replacement
Tech Optimizer
September 25, 2024

Kaspersky customers in the US complain about receiving unsolicited security software replacement

Kaspersky Lab is transitioning its US customers to a new antivirus product called UltraAV due to a ban imposed by the Biden Administration. This change is occurring as Kaspersky winds down its operations in the US by September 30. UltraAV, which supports up to 20 devices, is owned by Pango, recently acquired by Aura, and is based on technology from Max Secure Software, led by Dr. Zulfikar Ramzan. UltraAV has not participated in established trade organizations like AMTSO and has not undergone independent evaluation, leading to skepticism within the antivirus community. Initial assessments suggest that UltraAV may need improvements in protection and user experience, but Pango plans a third-party evaluation later this year.
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.
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