A draft decree has mandated Italian public authorities to replace Russian-based Kaspersky antivirus software.
The decision follows Italy’s data regulator investigation into the potential risk of using the Kaspersky software.
It is widely speculated that the platform could be hijacked by the Russian government and used to launch cyberattacks.
As part of its investigation, the regulatory body has asked Kaspersky to provide information including the nature of its customers in the country.
Kaspersky was also asked to clarify how its tools process personal data. This includes information on whether the data were provided to foreign governments.
Kaspersky has assured that it was privately managed and has no affiliation with the Russian government.
The company confirmed receiving the Italian regulator’s request stated that it will provide every needed information that responds to any concerns.