US bans Russian cybersecurity software amid threat of influence operation

 The Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has issued a groundbreaking Final Determination prohibiting Kaspersky Lab, Inc., and its associated entities from offering anti-virus software and cybersecurity products or services directly or indirectly to U.S. individuals or within the United States. This directive also encompasses Kaspersky Lab, Inc.’s affiliates, subsidiaries, and parent companies. Effective July 20, Kaspersky will be barred from selling its software to American consumers and businesses. However, the company is permitted to provide software and antivirus signature updates to existing customers until September 29. Current customers are advised to find suitable replacements within this period to ensure continuous security protection.

This action by BIS marks a significant milestone as it is the inaugural Final Determination from the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services (OICTS). The OICTS's mandate involves evaluating whether specific transactions involving information and communications technology, or services pose an undue or unacceptable national security threat to the United States. As a result of this determination, Kaspersky is now prohibited from conducting various activities within the U.S., including the sale of its software and providing updates to existing software installations. This decision underscores concerns regarding potential risks or vulnerabilities associated with Kaspersky's products and services in relation to U.S. national security interests.

US bans Russian cybersecurity software amid threat of influence operation