Kaspersky’s Android antivirus software has been unexpectedly removed from the Google Play Store, along with the deactivation of Kaspersky’s developer account. Users across various countries, including the United States, have reported being unable to download Kaspersky’s Android security, VPN, and antivirus apps since last week.
In an official statement on its forum, Kaspersky stated that an investigation is underway regarding the absence of its app from the Google Play Store. The decision by Google was based on an over-interpretation of U.S. restrictions without confirmation from the U.S. Department of Commerce. However, this restrictive measure does not prohibit the sale or distribution of Kaspersky products and services outside the United States. Kaspersky has informed the U.S. Department of Commerce about the situation and is hopeful for guidance soon.
In its statement, Kaspersky mentioned that B2B customers have recently been notified via the Google Play Store that its developer account has been closed and that its products have been removed from the platform.
Google’s decision comes in light of the U.S. government’s steps to limit the distribution and sale of Kaspersky products in the United States since September 29. Although there are no material legal implications of these restrictions outside the U.S., Google unilaterally decided to remove the company’s products from the Play Store before September 29, effectively depriving global users of Kaspersky’s services.
Kaspersky believes that Google’s decision was made based on an over-interpretation of U.S. restrictions without confirmation from the U.S. Department of Commerce. The restrictive measures do not prohibit the sale or distribution of Kaspersky products and services outside the U.S. Kaspersky has informed the U.S. Department of Commerce about this matter and is expecting to receive guidance soon.