Alert Issued on Kaspersky Anti-Virus Software Due to Security Concerns

In a recent development, cybersecurity solutions provider OPSWAT has announced the removal of Kaspersky from its MetaDefender Core solution. This change comes as part of OPSWAT's continuous efforts to provide robust and reliable protection against viruses and malware.

MetaDefender Core, the key technology of OPSWAT for email, ICAP, and data protection, will no longer include Kaspersky as one of its antivirus engines. The manufacturer of the replacement antivirus engine for the "Core 20" package, which consists of 20 AV engines from various manufacturers based in different regions and continents, has not been explicitly stated yet.

Kaspersky is currently only included in the "Core 20" package, a package that leverages the power of swarm intelligence from multiple anti-malware engines for enhanced protection. The removal of Kaspersky will allow the Core 20 package to function once more with the full swarm intelligence of 20 AV engines.

OPSWAT assures its customers that this change will not affect the overall functionality or efficiency of the MetaDefender Core solution. In fact, the bundling of multiple anti-malware engines in OPSWAT solutions enhances the overall protection against viruses and malware.

Customers can continue to receive efficient malware protection even after deactivating the use of the Kaspersky AV engine in the MetaDefender Core solution. OPSWAT offers extension possibilities for the MetaDefender Core solution through add-on modules, ensuring that customers can tailor their protection to their specific needs.

The risks associated with the signature update and the scan by the Kaspersky AV engine are mitigated and the danger is eliminated with the removal of Kaspersky. This move comes in light of concerns regarding Russia's threats against organizations, companies, and critical infrastructures in the EU, which increase the risk of becoming a victim of a cyberattack when using Kaspersky antivirus software.

OPSWAT will inform its customers in good time about the new composition and any necessary measures. The company stresses that the removal of Kaspersky does not significantly impact IT security as MetaDefender Core uses at least 8 to a maximum of 35 trusted AV engines.

In summary, OPSWAT's decision to remove Kaspersky from its MetaDefender Core solution is part of its commitment to providing its customers with the best possible protection against viruses and malware. The change will not affect the efficiency of the MetaDefender Core solution and customers can continue to rely on it for efficient malware protection.