Kaspersky is known as a Russian anti-viruses and security software company. After the US government included Kaspersky in the "Acts List" - a list of "foreign individuals, companies and organizations considered a national security threat", forcing Kaspersky to close its US branch, the company decided to give a " farewell gift" exclusively to users in the US. That is providing free security products for 6 months, along with useful advice to ensure online safety.
Kaspersky expressed its gratitude to US travelers for choosing and trusting their products over the years in a personal message to them.
In addition, to bid farewell to the US market and thank long-time users, Kaspersky also offered some free security software for half a year. The company's message stated: "Kaspersky is about to leave the US, we want to thank users by providing some security solutions for free for 6 months."
On the other hand, Kaspersky offers some useful tips to help users avoid problems and be safer in the online environment, such as: Always back up data; be cautious with links and check the origin before clicking on them; protect online identity; change passwords regularly; use complex and long passwords...
It is known that the 6-month free period that the company offers to thank users in the US may be related to the ban by the Department of Industry and Security (BIS) under the US Department of Commerce. Accordingly, this order prohibits the sale and distribution of Kaspersky products, including updates, in the US starting from September 29, 2024.
Therefore, after September 29, Kaspersky users in the US may no longer receive automatic updates and new virus definitions through software. Instead, they will have to install it manually through Kaspersky's website if they are allowed to provide it. This will reduce the security of the product.
Kaspersky said it will start closing its US branch in July 20, 2024, including laying off employees here in a statement to Bleeping Computer: "This decision and process follow the final ruling of the US Department of Commerce, banning the sale and distribution of Kaspersky products in the US. The company carefully considered the impact of US legal requirements and made this difficult decision because business opportunities in this country are no longer feasible."
With no longer access to the US market and pressure from the European Parliament to rule out the use of products from Chinese and Russian suppliers in key and sensitive areas of the European Union, Kaspersky is forced to switch to other regions such as Asia and South America.
