Surprise Kaspersky Exit Leaves Users Worried

The sudden replacement of Kaspersky software has led to widespread user confusion and frustration. Many customers reported on social media and forums that their Kaspersky antivirus was deleted without prior notice and replaced with UltraAV, owned by the US-based Pango Group. Some users, who were unaware of the transition, expressed concerns about the new software’s unknown track record and lack of independent testing. Others feared that the abrupt installation could indicate malware, given the stealthy nature of the switch.

While Kaspersky had notified some customers via email about the partnership with UltraAV, many said these communications did not clearly inform them that their existing software would be forcibly removed and replaced. According to UltraAV, the switch was designed to provide continuous protection without user intervention, leveraging permissions already granted to the old Kaspersky software.

UltraAV’s antivirus, although new to the market, has not undergone extensive independent testing, raising concerns among cybersecurity experts and consumers. The product’s engine is based on technology acquired from Indian vendor Max Secure Software, but its efficacy remains largely unverified by leading testing organizations.

Kaspersky has defended the move, stating that the partnership with UltraAV was intended to ensure US customers continued to receive cybersecurity protection after Kaspersky's market exit. The company emphasized that the transition was aimed at avoiding a protection gap for users. However, the lack of user consent for the update has sparked criticism, with many feeling that they should have been given a choice rather than having the software automatically replaced without explicit permission.

This controversial transition marks the end of Kaspersky’s presence in the US market, following heightened scrutiny and regulatory actions against the company. With Kaspersky’s US operations winding down, customers now face the decision to either continue using UltraAV under their existing subscriptions or seek alternative antivirus solutions from other providers.

What should you do next?

If you're a Kaspersky user affected by this sudden switch, it's essential to review your current cybersecurity setup. Check if UltraAV meets your security needs, especially since it hasn't undergone extensive third-party testing. Evaluate the features, update frequency, and privacy policies to ensure they align with your expectations. You may want to consider alternative antivirus options that have established track records and transparent testing histories. Always maintain control over your software choices, and don't hesitate to explore other security providers if you feel uncomfortable with forced updates.