The US Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has prohibited Kaspersky Lab from offering antivirus software and cybersecurity products or services, whether directly or indirectly, in the US. This ban restricts Kaspersky from participating in certain transactions related to information and communication technology services.
According to Elizabeth Cannon, the executive director of the Office of Information and Communications Technology and Services (ICTS), the Russian government has shown a willingness to exploit Russian companies like Kaspersky to obtain sensitive US personal information and compromise systems and networks. As a result, BIS has also added three entities associated with Kaspersky Lab to the Entity List due to their collaboration with Russian military and intelligence authorities.
Gina Raimondo, the secretary of commerce, emphasized the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to safeguarding national security and outsmarting adversaries. She highlighted the importance of using all available tools to protect US national security and citizens from potential threats posed by technology. Kaspersky responded to the ban by asserting its commitment to security and expressing its intention to explore legal options to preserve its operations and relationships.
Despite the ban, Kaspersky continues to offer cyber threat intelligence services and training in the US. The company has recently revamped its business-to-business product range with the launch of Kaspersky Extended Detection and Response (XDR). In addition, Kaspersky has a history of high-profile sponsorship deals, but some partnerships, like the one with Ferrari, have been impacted by geopolitical events.
One of Kaspersky’s customer references in the UK is Proband Group, which serves a wide range of customers in the West Midlands and public sector organizations throughout the UK.