Kaspersky is a multinational cybersecurity and antivirus company founded in 1997 by Eugene Kaspersky, Natalya Kaspersky, and Alexey De-Monderik. Headquartered in Moscow, Russia, with a holding company in the United Kingdom, Kaspersky has grown into a global leader in cybersecurity, offering a wide range of products for both consumers and businesses.
Products and Services
Kaspersky develops and sells antivirus, internet security, password management, endpoint security, and other cybersecurity products and services. Its consumer software lineup traditionally included antivirus and Internet security services.
Kaspersky also provides advanced detection and response solutions, secure operating systems (KasperskyOS), and IoT security products.
Performance and Reputation
Kaspersky is consistently rated among the top antivirus vendors for its effectiveness in detecting malware and protecting against cyber threats. Independent tests by organizations such as AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, and SE Labs regularly give Kaspersky high marks for its detection rates and overall performance. Its software is available for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and other platforms.
Controversies and Bans
However, Kaspersky has faced scrutiny and bans in several countries, particularly the United States, due to allegations of ties between the company and the Russian government. In 2017, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security banned Kaspersky software from federal agencies, citing security concerns. Additional bans and warnings followed from other governments, including Germany and Canada, especially after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
As of September 29, 2024, Kaspersky is no longer legally available in the United States, and existing users no longer receive updates, making the software unsafe to use in the country. Kaspersky has responded by emphasizing its commitment to transparency and has moved core infrastructure from Russia to Switzerland.