Linux antivirus developers who saw their company acquired by Microsoft this June have jumped ship.

Former members of GeCAD's RAV (Reliable AntiVirus) team, who worked on the Unix/Linux software development line, have joined security vendor Kaspersky Labs.

Microsoft had earlier confirmed that it will not develop future versions of GeCAD's RAV antivirus software on the Linux and Novell platforms, tailoring the software instead for Windows.

"These talented developers will add value to our expertise, by contributing to the continual improvement of our Unix/Linux solutions," commented Natalya Kaspersky, chief executive of Kaspersky Labs.

Teodor Cimpoesu, now leading developer of Unix/Linux products at Kaspersky Labs, added: "We are looking forward to providing users with new products and technologies for successful protection against IT threats."

Kaspersky also said that the company will offer a migration programme for existing RAV customers.

Details are yet to be confirmed, but the vendor said that current RAV customers will be offered technical support and a "free and smooth transition".