Google has removed Kaspersky’s Android apps from the Play Store and has also disabled Kaspersky’s developer account. None of Kaspersky’s products are available on Google Play
After users reported the issue on social media, the company confirmed the issue on its official forum. The company is now investigating the issue and will soon come with more details.
“Kaspersky is currently investigating the circumstances behind the issue and exploring potential solutions to ensure that users of its products can continue downloading and updating their applications from Google Play. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause,” Kaspersky Employee posted on the official forum.
People, who are interested in downloading any of Kaspersky apps, can download the app from alternative app stores including Galaxy Store, Amazon Appstore, or from any good APK download website. You can also download the APK from the official website.
Also see: Best Antivirus Software
The controversy began back in June when Kaspersky antivirus software was banned in the US over national security concerns and U.S. government sanctioned the company and 12 executives. These sanctions prohibited U.S. government entities from using Kaspersky products and services. Kaspersky announced its exit from the US market in July. Last month, Kaspersky also deleted its app from customer computers and installed UltraAV antivirus automatically.
If the controversy is related to the US market, Google could geo-restrict the app in place of removing the apps completely from the Play Store.
Kaspersky has not yet issued a public statement in response to the delisting. So, we don’t know what exactly happened. I am not sure if the company plans to appeal the U.S. government’s sanctions or explore alternative distribution channels for its products.
