Kaspersky Lab is reported to be in the midst of a rather unfortunate struggle between Washington and Moscow, as the Russian security company is being investigated by the US intelligence services.
Informally, US officials are increasingly worried that Russian spies could use Kaspersky's software to spy on Americans and sabotage US systems. So the National Security Service (NSA) has revealed that it is reviewing the government use of the company's products.
Mike Rogers, Director of the NSA, told the Senate committee that he is personally involved in the monitoring of the Kaspersky issue, but refrained from saying more, likely due to the sensitive nature of the situation.
Defense market Agency Director Mr. Vincent Stewart also confirmed the investigation stating that they are monitoring Kaspersky and its software.
Kaspersky, on the other hand, issued a statement earlier this week stating that allegations are false:
"The company has a 20-year history in its industry better safetyalways following the highest ethical business practices and Kaspersky Lab believes that it is completely unacceptable to accuse the company unfairly without solid evidence to support these false claims.”
The company notes that taking part in such actions would destroy a multi-million dollar business that took decades to build it. In addition, Kaspersky notes that users have full control over telemetry, since their participation is voluntary.
Kaspersky also notes that over the last ten years, they have discovered and publicized many Russian cyber spy campaigns despite the company's association with the country.
Eugene Kaspersky, the company's founder and CEO, also reported the issue during duration of a session AMA at Reddit. He said he would be happy to testify before the Senate to clarify any concerns about the products he manufactures.
"I respectfully disagree with their opinion, and I am very sorry that these gentlemen can not use the best software on the market for political reasons," Kaspersky said.
