NEW YORK, Friday, July 19,2024 – Kaspersky Labs will begin gradually winding down its U.S. operations starting July 20, the Russian cybersecurity firm has announced.
The new US restrictions, effective September 29, will prevent downloads of software updates, resales, and licensing of Kaspersky products.
New business dealings for Kaspersky in the U.S. are to be blocked 30 days after the restrictions were first announced on June 20.
This decision follows the Biden administration’s move to bar sales of the company’s products in the US., citing national security concerns.
Kaspersky, known for its anti-virus software, will eliminate all U.S.-based positions.
The company had already stopped allowing US customers to purchase products on its website, stating “purchase unavailable for U.S. customers.”
The shutdown will end nearly two decades of Kaspersky operating in the US.
Last month, U.S. Commerce Secretary announced plans to prohibit the sale of Kaspersky’s software, citing risks due to Russia’s influence on the company.
Additionally, sanctions were imposed in June on Kaspersky’s senior leadership, including the chief business development officer, chief operating officer, legal officer, and corporate communications chief.
The US government has expressed concerns that the Russian government could use Kaspersky’s software for surveillance, claims that Kaspersky has denied.
The news was first reported by independent journalist Kim Zetter and confirmed by CNN and Reuters.
