Kaspersky's Forced UltraAV Switch: US Customers Outraged

A recent move by Kaspersky to automatically replace its antivirus software with UltraAV in the United States has sparked outrage among customers who felt they were not properly informed or given a choice in the matter.

• Customers took to social media platforms like Reddit, expressing their frustration about the sudden and unannounced switch from Kaspersky to UltraAV, and even the installation of UltraVPN.
• Many reported waking up to find their Kaspersky software gone, replaced with UltraAV without their consent. The transition occurred while their computers were idle.

The US Government's Ban and Kaspersky's Response

The situation arose after the US government imposed a ban on the sale of Kaspersky software in June 2024, citing security concerns due to the company's Russian origins.

• Following the ban, Kaspersky was permitted to provide limited security updates to its existing customers until September 29th.
• In September, Kaspersky partnered with Pango Group, the parent company of UltraAV, to facilitate a transition for its US customers. This move was intended to ensure that users would not be left without protection once Kaspersky's exit from the US market became fully effective.

UltraAV's Announcement and Kaspersky's Explanation

UltraAV, a relatively new antivirus software, announced on its website that Kaspersky customers using Windows would automatically receive the new software with their existing subscription.

• UltraAV stated that no action was required from the customers and that the transition was a seamless process.
• Kaspersky confirmed the transition to UltraAV and stated that it partnered with UltraAV to ensure a smooth experience for users, claiming that they would not face any protection gaps during the changeover.

Customer Concerns and Lack of Transparency

Despite Kaspersky and UltraAV's claims of seamless transition and notification, many customers expressed their discontent, highlighting the lack of transparency and lack of choice in the matter.

• Customers, including a former Kaspersky reseller, emphasized that they should have been explicitly informed about the forced replacement of their software and given an option to opt-out of the transition.
• Many customers expressed concern about the potential risks associated with the automatic installation of UltraAV and UltraVPN, as they were not given the chance to assess the security implications before the software was installed on their computers.

Expert Opinions and Concerns about Data Privacy

Security experts and former government officials expressed concerns regarding the automated transition and the lack of user control over the process.

• Rob Joyce, former director of cybersecurity at the National Security Agency, highlighted the potential risks posed by this scenario, emphasizing that Kaspersky had "total control" of users' machines during the transition.
• The lack of transparent communication from Kaspersky and UltraAV regarding the details of the transition, particularly the automatic software replacement, has raised concerns about data privacy and potential security vulnerabilities.