Kaspersky, the Russian cybersecurity firm, has unexpectedly removed its antivirus software from U.S. customers’ computers, replacing it with UltraAV without prior notification. This action follows the U.S. government’s decision to add Kaspersky to its Entity List and ban sales of its software from September 29, 2024.
The switch, executed through an automatic software update, caught many users off guard. Some initially feared a malware infection, while others reported difficulties removing the new software. One user described the experience: “I woke up and saw this new antivirus system on my desktop and Kaspersky was gone. I was concerned that my desktop somehow had a virus.”
UltraAV, the replacement software, is owned by Pango Group, which controls multiple VPN brands. Little is known about UltraAV’s capabilities or track record in the cybersecurity market.
Kaspersky maintains this move ensures “continued protection” for U.S. customers. A company employee explained: “This update ensured that users would not experience a gap in protection upon Kaspersky’s exit from the market.”
If it was to have been a sign that Kaspersky cared about its customers and wanted them protected, it seems to have failed, and left them with a clumsy exist from the market. If it was a purchase of Kaspersky’s business, which frankly seems more likely, it apparently didn’t leave a great first impression.
For UltraAV, it’s baffling that they would think that this most trusted relationship could be handled in this way.
