Consumer Reports recommends security packages from several companies, including AVG, Avira, G Data, and Symantec. However, we will continue to monitor this developing story.Ĭonsumer Reports is currently devoting more resources to security testing and is working with outside partners to develop better standards for digital products.Ĭonsumers who use Kaspersky products now but would like to make a change have a number of options. Consequently, we have not changed its recommended status in our ratings.
We have not independently tested the software for its vulnerability to this kind of attack. “As a consumer you have to think ‘What am I giving away when I sign up and use this software?’”Ĭonsumer Reports included Kaspersky Internet Security 2017 in its testing of antimalware packages, and the product did well in such tasks as blocking access to phishing sites and protecting PCs from malware loaded on devices plugged into USB ports. “One of the things people don’t realize, by installing that tool you give the right to pull any information that might be interesting,” says Chris O’Rourke, another former NSA cybersecurity expert who is the CEO of cybersecurity firm Soteria.
Such software is designed to scan a computer comprehensively as it searches for malware, then send regular reports back to a company server. “For any consumers or small businesses that are concerned about privacy or have sensitive information, I wouldn’t recommend running Kaspersky.”īy its very nature antivirus software is an appealing tool for hackers who want to access remote computers, security experts say. “It’s a big deal,” says Blake Darché, a former NSA cybersecurity analyst and the founder of the cybersecurity firm Area 1. government, say there is reason for concern. It’s not clear whether Kaspersky software poses a threat to consumers’ computers, but security experts, including those who used to work for the U.S.