Apple and Google take down malicious mobile apps from their app stores
TechCrunchFEB 13
Australia Bans Russian Kaspersky Software
Above: In this photo illustration, a Kaspersky logo is displayed on a smartphone with the world Banned in the background. Image copyright: Avishek Das/Contributor/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
The Facts
The Australian Department of Home Affairs has prohibited government entities from installing or using any Kaspersky Lab products and web services on official systems and devices, with a deadline of April 1, 2025, for removing existing installations.
Department Secretary Stephanie Foster determined that Kaspersky products pose an unacceptable security risk to government networks and data, specifically citing threats of "foreign interference, espionage and sabotage."
Australia has become the latest member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance to restrict Kaspersky software, following similar bans by the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Australia has rightfully joined its Western neighbors in blocking this dangerous Russian company. Kaspersky’s deep access to systems, paired with its Moscow roots and likely Kremlin ties, makes it a prime espionage tool. More countries should follow suit not only in government bans but also sanctions on executives. If Russia is a clear threat to government systems, its malware protection software certainly is, too.
Establishment-critical narrative
Despite anti-Russia propaganda from Western governments, Kaspersky’s top-tier antivirus prowess endures, thwarting cyber threats for over a decade. Despite the US Treasury Department's ban last year, Americans are defying their government to keep using their preferred software. There's no hard evidence linking Kaspersky to Russian espionage, only geopolitical fearmongering.
Metaculus Prediction
Public Figures
Sign Up for Our Free NewslettersSign Up for Our Free Newsletters
Sign Up!
Sign Up Now!