Russian Intelligence and Kaspersky
Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke issued a BOD in order to identify and remove any Kaspersky Lab products and related entities. This comes after accusations of Kaspersky Lab handing out data to Russian intelligence. US governments are avoiding any relations with the Russian intelligence after the state sponsored attack which was carried out earlier. Are they? All fronts? But this action does not involve military system, only civil government network, not military.
“This action is based on the information security risks presented by the use of Kaspersky products on federal information systems. Kaspersky anti-virus products and solutions provide broad access to files and elevated privileges on the computers on which the software is installed, which can be exploited by malicious cyber actors”
The Department is concerned about the ties between certain Kaspersky officials and Russian intelligence and other government agencies, and requirements under Russian law that allow Russian intelligence agencies to request or compel assistance from Kaspersky and to intercept communications transiting Russian networks.
“The Department’s priority is to ensure the integrity and security of federal information systems. Safeguarding federal government systems requires reducing potential vulnerabilities, protecting against cyber intrusions, and anticipating future threats. While this action involves products of a Russian-owned and operated company…”
Russian embassy later responded saying “…these steps can only evoke regrets. They only move back the prospects of bilateral ties recovery…No credible evidence has been presented publicly by anyone or any organisation as the accusations are based on false allegations and inaccurate assumptions”
