This latest move aligns Australia with other members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, all of whom have imposed similar restrictions on the Russian firm’s products in recent years
Australia has joined several of its key allies in banning the use of software developed by Russian cybersecurity firm Kaspersky on government systems, citing national security concerns. The Department of Home Affairs issued a directive last week mandating the removal of all Kaspersky products and services from official government devices by 1 April.
In the directive, the department argued that the continued use of Kaspersky software posed an “unacceptable security risk,” specifically pointing to the potential threats of foreign interference, espionage, and sabotage.
“After considering threat and risk analysis, I have determined that the use of Kaspersky Lab products and web services… poses an unacceptable security risk to the government networks and data, arising from threats of foreign interference, espionage and sabotage,” said Stephanie Foster, Secretary of the Department of Home Affairs.
This latest move aligns Australia with other members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, all of whom have imposed similar restrictions on the Russian firm’s products in recent years.
When approached for comment, Kaspersky spokesperson Stefan Rojacher expressed disappointment over the decision, stating that it came without prior consultation.
“We are disappointed with the decision and the directive was issued without any warning or opportunity for engagement to address the Australian government’s concerns,” Rojacher said.
The ban reflects growing international unease over Kaspersky’s alleged ties to Russian state interests, an accusation the company has consistently denied. However, concerns among Western nations have led to mounting restrictions.
Last year, the United States took a similar step, enacting a nationwide ban on Kaspersky software in June 2024 and advising citizens to switch to alternative cybersecurity providers. Shortly after, Kaspersky announced it would exit the U.S. market, stating its American operations had become “no longer viable.”
In a further blow, the company also revealed plans to wind down its operations in the United Kingdom. In October, Kaspersky informed media that it would “commence a wind-down of the U.K. office operations, reorienting its business in the country toward the partner channel.”
Australia’s decision adds to the mounting pressure on the Russian cybersecurity firm, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions and heightened caution among nations regarding foreign software providers’ access to sensitive networks.
