Russia’s Kaspersky Labs to Exit U.S. Market

On Monday, over a month after the Biden administration banned US sales of Kaspersky Labs, the Russian anti-virus software firm announced it would progressively wind down its U.S. operations from July 20

Kaspersky, which intends to eliminate all U.S.-based positions, prohibited consumers from purchasing any products on its website earlier in the day, citing “purchase unavailable for U.S. customers.”

Last month, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo announced her intention to prohibit the sale of anti-virus software manufactured by Kaspersky in the United States. She cited the security dangers associated with Russia’s influence on the cybersecurity company.

In June, the government imposed sanctions on Kaspersky’s senior leadership, which included the chief business development officer, chief operating officer, legal officer, and corporate communications chief. The sanctions were based on cybersecurity risks.

CNN was the first to disclose the company’s intention to exit the United States.

On September 29, the U.S. government will implement new restrictions on inbound sales of Kaspersky software. These restrictions will prohibit the download of software updates, resales, and licensing of the product.

All new U.S. commerce for Kaspersky is to be prohibited for 30 days following the initial announcement of the restrictions on June 20.