Warning against well-known anti-virus software: German authorities fear attacks

The Federal Office for Information Security warns against the use of well-known anti-virus software. Because of the Russian war of aggression, this is not recommended. Instead, alternatives should be used. The manufacturer denies the allegations.

BSI: Warning about Kaspersky’s anti-virus software

The BSI recommends that German private users and companies refrain from using anti-virus software from Kaspersky. Against the background of the Russian war in Ukraine, the deployment “a significant risk” that could have “far-reaching consequences” (source: BSI). Kaspersky is headquartered in Russia.

According to the German authorities, it cannot be ruled out that the Russian government will force Kaspersky to pass on private data or even attack systems in the future. In particular the use of the software in the area of ​​critical infrastructure is not recommended. Private users should also look around for alternatives to programs such as Kaspersky Anti-Virus and Kaspersky Internet Security because of possible “collateral effects”.

You can find out which anti-virus software performs well in the test here:

The background to the urgent warning from the BSI is recently issued Russia’s threats against NATO and the EU. These are associated with a “considerable risk of a successful IT attack”. Kaspersky products have long been criticized in the US. US authorities have been banned from using it since 2017.

Kaspersky offers this software:

Kaspersky: No connection to Russian government

In a statement the software manufacturer defends itself against the allegations. According to the company, there would be no ties “to the Russian or any other government.” In addition, Kaspersky emphasizes that data processing has been carried out in Switzerland since 2018. A maximum of security is guaranteed.