MOSCOW-Russian antivirus giant Kaspersky Labs has told BBC News that it is leaving the US after the Biden administration banned sales and distribution of the firm's software. Kaspersky said it had made the "sad and difficult decision" to leave "as business opportunities in the country are no longer viable".
It comes after Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said last month that Moscow's influence over the company posed a significant risk to US infrastructure and services.
It comes after Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said last month that Moscow's influence over the company posed a significant risk to US infrastructure and services.
Kaspersky, which had been operating in the US for two decades, has denied the allegations. "Starting from July 20, 2024 Kaspersky will gradually wind down its US operations and eliminate US-based positions," the firm said in a statement.Its US website has already stopped selling its antivirus and cybersecurity tools, with a message reading "purchase is unavailable for US customers".
The announcement came after sales and distribution of Kaspersky products were banned in the US. Ms Raimondo said the US was compelled to take action due to Russia's "capacity and... intent to collect and weaponize the personal information of Americans".
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