Kaspersky exits the U.S., replaces antivirus with UltraAV

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES—Kaspersky, the Russian cybersecurity firm, began unexpectedly removing its antivirus software from U.S. customers’ systems last week, replacing it with UltraAV’s solution.
This abrupt transition follows Kaspersky’s decision to exit the U.S. market after the U.S. government added it to the Entity List, which flags foreign entities considered national security risks.
Government sanctions prompt transition
In June, the Biden administration announced a ban on Kaspersky software sales and updates in the U.S., effective September 29, 2024, due to national security concerns. In response, Kaspersky started winding down its U.S. operations in July and laid off its American workforce.
Customers were informed via email in early September that they would continue receiving protection through UltraAV, owned by Pango Group. However, these communications did not explicitly state that Kaspersky products would be deleted and replaced without user consent.
User concerns over unannounced software installation
Numerous users reported on platforms like BleepingComputer‘s forums that they were surprised to find UltraAV installed on their devices without prior notification.
One user recounted: “I woke up and saw this new antivirus system on my desktop and tried opening Kaspersky but it was gone”. Many users feared malware infections due to the unexpected software switch.
Some users managed to uninstall UltraAV using its uninstaller, but others found it reinstalled after rebooting their systems.
Additionally, some discovered UltraVPN installed alongside UltraAV, likely linked to their previous Kaspersky VPN subscriptions.
Official statements and transition process
Kaspersky explained in an official statement that the transition aimed to maintain continuous protection for U.S.-based customers as the company exits the market. A software update issued on September 19 facilitated this transition to UltraAV, ensuring no protection gap occurred.
“This update ensured that users would not experience a gap in protection upon Kaspersky’s exit from the market,” the company stated.
UltraAV claims to offer a feature similar to Kaspersky’s products and encourages users to explore its premium features. The company has provided FAQs and support contacts for further assistance.
Communication gaps and user frustration
Despite Pango Group’s assertion that notifications about the transition have been communicated through various channels since September 5, many users reported not receiving adequate information or being confused by the notifications they did receive.
The transition is being implemented in waves to ensure a seamless process as Kaspersky exits the market.
As this situation unfolds, affected users are advised to review available support resources from UltraAV and monitor further updates from both companies regarding this significant change in their cybersecurity protection.