Russian Cybersecurity Firm Kaspersky to Exit US

3D printed models of people working on computers and padlock are seen in front of a displayed Kaspersky logo in this picture illustration taken, February 1, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights
3D printed models of people working on computers and padlock are seen in front of a displayed Kaspersky logo in this picture illustration taken, February 1, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights
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Russian Cybersecurity Firm Kaspersky to Exit US

3D printed models of people working on computers and padlock are seen in front of a displayed Kaspersky logo in this picture illustration taken, February 1, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights
3D printed models of people working on computers and padlock are seen in front of a displayed Kaspersky logo in this picture illustration taken, February 1, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights

Russia's Kaspersky Labs will leave the United States, according to a pop-up seen by users on the anti-virus software maker's US website, nearly a month after the Biden administration announced plans to bar sales of the company in the country.

Last month, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo announced plans to bar the sale of anti-virus software made by Kaspersky in the country, citing security risks posed by Russia's influence on the cybersecurity company.

Kaspersky did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The government also slapped sanctions in June on Kaspersky's senior leadership, including the chief business development officer, chief operating officer, legal officer and corporate communications chief, citing cybersecurity risks.

CNN on Monday reported that Kaspersky Labs will "gradually wind down" its US operations and lay off US-based employees, starting July 20.

Kaspersky's US website did not allow consumers to purchase any products, citing "purchase is unavailable for US customers".

The new restrictions by the US government on inbound sales of Kaspersky software, which would bar downloads of software updates, resales and licensing of the product, will come into effect on Sept. 29.

New US business for Kaspersky are to be blocked 30 days after the restrictions were first announced on June 20.



NCA Launches 'Cybersecurity Research and Innovation Pioneers Grants' Initiative

NCA Launches 'Cybersecurity Research and Innovation Pioneers Grants' Initiative
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NCA Launches 'Cybersecurity Research and Innovation Pioneers Grants' Initiative

NCA Launches 'Cybersecurity Research and Innovation Pioneers Grants' Initiative

The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) announced the launch of the "Cybersecurity Research and Innovation Pioneers Grants" initiative. This initiative aims to empower outstanding researchers and innovators to develop breakthrough research and disruptive innovations for current and emerging cybersecurity challenges, accelerating their impact both nationally and internationally, SPA reported.
NCA is launching this initiative in collaboration with its technical arm, the Saudi Information Technology Company (SITE), as part of the "National Program for Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) in Cybersecurity."
The national program serves as a launch pad for transformative initiatives that unlock new horizons and foster cybersecurity industry development on a national level. Its aim is to solidify Saudi Arabia's standing as a secure global economic driver built on innovation and cybersecurity excellence.
The program prioritizes eight areas: NextGen Cyber Defense, Cyber Resilience, Cyber-Physical Technologies and IoT, AI x Cyber, Cryptography and Quantum Security, Behavioral Cyber, Future of Cyber Threats and Attacks, and Cyber Order. By nurturing robust national and international partnerships in cybersecurity RDI, the program is described as "the cornerstone of building an attractive innovation ecosystem in this critical field."
The Cybersecurity Research and Innovation Pioneers Grants initiative will provide grants for researchers, academics, experts, and university students at various levels in cybersecurity or related fields. It will nurture broader-scale advancements in cybersecurity RDI under three primary tracks: Scientific Research and Projects, Postgraduate Research Theses, and Bachelor's and Master's Graduation Projects.