Following the removing of its developer account from Google Play Store, Kaspersky has provided alternative ways for Android users to install and update their Kaspersky Android mobile apps.
The cybersecurity company in a blog on 7 October stated that Google had quietly removed its apps from the play store as a result of restrictions placed on the company by the U.S. government.
Fortunately, Android users can now use alternative stores including Galaxy Store, Huawei AppGallery, and Xiaomi GetApps to download Kaspersky apps.
Google’s ban on Kaspersky
Google’s ban on Kaspersky and removal of its apps follows U.S. government actions restricting the distribution and sales of Kaspersky products in the United States after September 29.
Kaspersky says although the restriction had no effect outside of the U.S., Google hurriedly banned its developer account and removed its apps from the play store. This has hindered Android users’ access to the security app globally.
Kaspersky stated in the blog that:
“We believe that Google’s decision is based on an overinterpretation of the U.S. restrictions, which was not backed by a confirmation from the U.S. Department of Commerce. The U.S. restrictive measures don’t prohibit the sales and distribution of Kaspersky’s products and services outside the United States. We have communicated this understanding to the U.S. Department of Commerce, and we hope to receive additional guidance from the Department shortly.”
What to do
Android users seeking to use Kaspersky can now download the apps from other mobile stores, including Galaxy Store, Huawei AppGallery, Xiaomi GetApps, and others. They can also download directly from the company website.
For those who have apps initially installed from Google on their Android devices, the apps will continue to work normally, including all paid features. They will also receive database updates through Kaspersky’s cloud infrastructure.
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