As we all know, Windows 10 comes bundled with its own security software that aims to provide basic virus protection, but most of us eventually choose to install antivirus software from other companies, in which case Windows’ basic tools step down. However, it appears that the entire process is not really as seamless as it may seem, at least according to Eugene Kaspersky. The Russian cyber security expert has filed a series of complaints in Russia and in the European Union, in which he basically accuses Microsoft of anti-competitive tactics. Apparently, the way Windows 10 switches the user over to Defender and the way the OS automatically uninstalls unsupported antivirus software whenever the user performs an upgrade to Windows 10 leaves software developers with little breathing room to adapt their own apps.
Moreover, notifications for expired antivirus software licenses are buried in the Security Center notifications, and they only become clearly visible after about three days. The purpose of these complaints is to force Microsoft to implement changes that would notify you about various software compatibility issues before the actual upgrade, which would prevent any sudden antivirus protection problems. Asking you for approval before automatically switching on Defender is also on the list, which seems fair.
The problem with Kaspersky’s complaints is that the Windows Insider program allows anyone to see what future Windows updates at all about, and it already provides warnings in regards to antivirus software incompatibilities. The fact that the average user doesn’t use this program is out of Microsoft’s hands for the most part. In any case, the company has issued an official statement regarding the complaints in Russia:
“Microsoft Russia and Kaspersky Lab. has a long history of cooperation in different areas. Microsoft is committed to work in full compliance with Russian law. The company hasn’t received an official notification from [antitrust regulator] FAS. As soon as we get it, we will review it carefully.”
