With Kaspersky banned in the US, what should customers do?

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The United States are banning Kaspersky products. Starting July 20, Kaspersky is no longer allowed to sell its products to new customers. Software updates remain available until September 29, 2024.

Customers who use Kaspersky products in the United States need to find different security solutions, as Kaspersky products will not be updated after September 29 anymore.

The reason given is the following: "he Department finds that Kaspersky’s provision of cybersecurity and anti-virus software to U.S. persons, including through third-party entities that integrate Kaspersky cybersecurity or anti-virus software into commercial hardware or software, poses undue and unacceptable risks to U.S. national security and to the security and safety of U.S. persons"

You can check out the Wired article for details.

Here are your options if you use Kaspersky productsThere is no need to rush, as the products will receive updates until September 29. The security products, including antivirus solutions, will become less effective after that date. While they will continue to work, they won't detect new or updated threats anymore because of the lack of updates.

The first step is to uninstall Kaspersky products from PCs and mobile devices. This does not have to be rushed, but should happen before September 29.

Uninstalling Kaspersky products on Windows will make Microsoft Defender Antivirus the default security solution on the device again. This keeps the device protected. On Android, Google Play protection is available, but it is not offering the same level of security as third-party security apps.

Several third-party security solutions are available that may be installed as alternatives.

Based on tests by AV-Test and AV-Comparatives, here are the products that have received the highest ratings in the latest tests.

• Avast Free Antivirus
  
• ESET Security Ultimate
  
• McAfee Total Protection
  

Note: these tests try to replicate real-world scenarios, but they are limited.

• Only Avast Free Antivirus is available free of charge.
  
• ESET Security Ultimate is expensive, at $179.99 per year. It includes features such as access to a VPN. Cheaper plans are available that bring down the price considerable. ESET Security Essential is available for $59.99 per year and includes all basic protections.
  
• McAfee Total Protection has different plans. The cheapest option, Basic, includes antivirus protection as well as some other features.
  

Kaspersky apps are also available for mobile devices. You can check the tests at AV-Comparatives and AV-Test to find alternatives.
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