The sanctions specifically target key leadership positions within Kaspersky Lab, including the chief business development officer, chief operating officer, legal officer, and corporate communications chief.

“Today’s action against Kaspersky Lab’s leadership underscores our commitment to safeguarding our cyber domain and protecting our citizens from malicious cyber threats,” stated Treasury Under Secretary Brian Nelson.

Kaspersky Lab responded to the sanctions, describing them as “unjustified and baseless.” A spokesperson for the company said that the sanctions would not impact its “resilience,” noting that they do not target the parent company, subsidiary companies, or its chief executive, Eugene Kaspersky.

The company reiterated its denial of any connections to any government or ties between the designated officials and Russian military or intelligence agencies.

On Thursday, AO Kaspersky, one of two Russian units of Kaspersky Lab, was placed on a Commerce Department trade restriction list. The company was accused of collaborating with Russian military intelligence to support Moscow’s cyber-intelligence efforts.

The sanctions announcement was paired with a ban on sales, resales, and software updates for Kaspersky products in the U.S., effective September 29.

U.S. authorities argue that Kaspersky software poses significant risks due to Russia’s influence over the company. They highlighted the software’s privileged access to computer systems, which could allow it to steal sensitive information from American computers, install malware, and withhold critical updates.

The sanctions prohibit American companies and citizens from engaging in trade or financial transactions with the sanctioned executives and freeze any assets they hold in the United States.