In a recent announcement, the U.S. Commerce Department revealed that the Biden administration is issuing a complete ban on the use of Kaspersky Lab's cybersecurity software in the United States. The decision stems from concerns about the Russian government's alleged influence operations over the software, which have been a topic of discussion since 2017.

Under Russian law, the government has complete access to Kaspersky systems, including the data of all its customers. This has raised national security concerns among U.S. officials who fear that the Russian government could exploit the company to collect and weaponize the personal information of Americans.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized that Russia has demonstrated the capacity and intent to utilize Russian companies like Kaspersky for offensive cyber activities. Given these concerns, the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security has used its new authorities to impose the ban on Kaspersky.

According to Raimondo, Kaspersky had already been banned from various government systems as far back as 2017 due to the longstanding concerns about its national security implications. The ban will come into effect on July 20, preventing Kaspersky from entering into any new agreements within the United States. Existing customers will be able to continue using the cyber and antivirus software until September 29, but after that, security updates will no longer be provided, leading to a degradation of software services.

Raimondo clarified that individuals and businesses using existing Kaspersky products will not be breaking the law, but they will not be able to update their software after September 30. She strongly encouraged users to cease using Kaspersky software and switch to alternative cybersecurity solutions for the protection of personal data and privacy.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas expressed support for the decision, emphasizing the importance of national security and the safeguarding of personal information. Mayorkas assured the public that efforts will be made to work with various stakeholders to protect critical infrastructure and ensure the safety of devices.

ABC News previously reported on the concerns surrounding Kaspersky, with its founder, Eugene Kaspersky, denying any influence or partnership with government agencies in a 2017 interview with the network.

With the total ban on Kaspersky's cybersecurity software, the Biden administration aims to enhance national security and protect the personal information and privacy of Americans.