Kaspersky is closing its UK office and laying off nearly 50 employees due to geopolitical tensions.
Kaspersky, the prominent Russian cybersecurity firm, has announced the closure of its United Kingdom office, resulting in layoffs for nearly 50 employees. This decision follows a similar move in the United States, where Kaspersky has been facing significant challenges due to allegations of ties to the Russian government. As part of its new strategy, Kaspersky aims to shift its focus from maintaining a direct presence in the UK to collaborating with local partners. Despite the closure, the company assures UK customers that they will still have access to its European team and services through partner channels.
Francesco Tius, a spokesperson for Kaspersky, confirmed this development in an email to TechCrunch. He emphasised that the decision to “wind down” operations in the UK is a strategic shift, allowing Kaspersky to better utilise its partner network in the region. The company aims to streamline its operations amid growing geopolitical tensions and challenges in various markets. This transition indicates Kaspersky’s intent to adapt to a rapidly changing business environment, particularly as it deals with ongoing scrutiny over its Russian origins.
The decision to close the London office is part of a broader response to setbacks Kaspersky has faced in recent years. The U.S. government imposed a ban on Kaspersky’s products in June, citing national security concerns related to its alleged connections with the Russian government – claims that Kaspersky has consistently denied. Following this ban, the company shut down its offices in the U.S. and laid off employees, forcing a significant reorganisation of its American operations. Many U.S. customers were unexpectedly transitioned to a new antivirus company, UltraAV, often without their consent, leading to confusion among users.
Despite these upheavals, Kaspersky remains focused on supporting its customers in Europe and the U.K. through its partner networks. The closure of its U.K. office highlights the ongoing difficulties the company faces in maintaining its business presence in major markets. Kaspersky continues to navigate the complex landscape shaped by geopolitical tensions and the fallout from its Russian origins. As the company pivots to a partner-based model, it hopes to sustain its operations and remain relevant in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
