Concerns About Kaspersky Date Back to 2017
June 20, 2024, 4:16 PM ET • 4 min read
The Biden administration has announced a comprehensive ban on the use of Russian-backed cybersecurity software within the United States, citing the potential for the Russian government to influence the software, as disclosed today by the U.S. Commerce Department.
Concerns surrounding Kaspersky Lab’s software have been prevalent among U.S. government officials since at least 2017. Under Russian legislation, the Russian government retains unfettered access to all data held within Kaspersky’s systems, consequently granting potential access to the sensitive data of its global customer base. This legal stipulation has long been a cornerstone of the U.S. government’s apprehensions regarding Kaspersky’s operations.
"Russia not only has the capability but also the intent to exploit companies like Kaspersky for malicious purposes, including harvesting and weaponizing the personal information of American citizens," stated Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo in a briefing with reporters. Raimondo elucidated that the Bureau of Industry and Security within the Commerce Department leveraged its newly granted authorities to implement the ban on Kaspersky.
Raimondo emphasized that Kaspersky has been a longstanding national security concern, leading to its removal from various government systems as early as 2017. In light of Russia’s continued offensive cyber capabilities and the capacity to steer Kaspersky’s activities, the U.S. found it imperative to impose a full prohibition to safeguard Americans and their personal data.
Under the newly enacted ban, Kaspersky is barred from entering new agreements within the United States post-July 20. Existing customers can utilize their current cyber and antivirus software until September 29; however, Kaspersky will be unable to provide security updates beyond this date. As a result, the functionality of these software services is expected to degrade significantly.
Commerce Secretary Raimondo strongly advised American individuals and businesses to cease using Kaspersky products immediately and transition to alternative cybersecurity solutions to ensure the protection of their data and personal information. "While using current Kaspersky products will not constitute a legal violation beyond September 30, I urge you to switch as soon as possible to safeguard your data and your privacy," Raimondo advised.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of this action to national security. "Today’s measures are critical for our national defense and will significantly bolster the security and privacy of Americans’ personal information," Mayorkas asserted. He affirmed ongoing cooperation with the Department of Commerce, state and local authorities, and critical infrastructure providers to protect the U.S.’s essential systems and assets.
It is noteworthy that Eugene Kaspersky, the CEO of Kaspersky Lab, has previously refuted claims of his company’s susceptibility to Russian influence. In a 2017 interview with ABC News, Kaspersky rejected the U.S. government’s warnings as "wrong advice," vehemently denying allegations of collaboration with governmental agencies.
This comprehensive measure reflects a proactive stance by the U.S. government towards countering potential cyber threats and safeguarding national security, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding cybersecurity in the digital age.
Source: ABC News
