According to the findings, more than a quarter of respondents incorrectly believe that antivirus software offers complete protection against all online threats. Others assume it can prevent identity theft, block phishing scams, or secure public Wi-Fi connections — functions that go far beyond what antivirus tools are designed to do. NordVPN’s Chief Technology Officer, Marijus Briedis, said the confusion highlights a troubling lack of cybersecurity awareness. “People tend to confuse different technologies and overestimate their capabilities,” he explained. “Some Americans don’t realize antivirus software’s main job is to detect and remove malware, not prevent identity theft or data breaches. This gap in understanding shows how much more cybersecurity education is needed.”
The survey also found that many Americans mix up antivirus software with other digital security tools, such as firewalls, password managers, ad blockers, and VPNs. This misunderstanding can create a false sense of security, leaving users vulnerable to attacks. Even more concerning, over one-third of those surveyed reported not using any cybersecurity software at all, despite nearly half admitting their personal information had been exposed in a data breach.
NordVPN’s research indicates that many users believe following good online habits alone is sufficient protection. While best practices like avoiding suspicious links, using strong passwords, and steering clear of phishing attempts are important, experts warn they are not enough in today’s sophisticated cyber landscape. Modern malware can infect devices without any direct user action, making layered protection essential.
Participants in the survey expressed particular concern about the exposure of sensitive personal data, such as social security numbers and credit card details. However, the most commonly leaked information remains email addresses, phone numbers, and physical addresses — details often dismissed as harmless but frequently exploited by cybercriminals. Such data enables more personalized and convincing phishing or “smishing” attacks, which can lead to identity theft and financial fraud.
Experts emphasize that while antivirus software remains a critical first line of defense, it cannot protect against every cyber threat. A combination of tools — including secure VPNs, multi-factor authentication, and strong, unique passwords — is necessary to ensure comprehensive protection. A VPN like NordVPN encrypts internet traffic, hides IP addresses, and shields users from tracking and surveillance, especially on unsecured public networks. Multi-factor authentication adds an additional verification layer to prevent unauthorized account access, while password managers help users create and store complex, unique passwords safely.
The key takeaway from NordVPN’s research is clear: cybersecurity requires more than just one solution. Relying solely on antivirus software creates dangerous blind spots, especially when users misunderstand its limitations. As Briedis put it, “This behavior undoubtedly contributes to the concerning cybersecurity situation in the U.S. Education, awareness, and layered protection are the best ways to stay safe online.”
With cyberattacks and data breaches on the rise, experts urge Americans to take a proactive approach — combining trusted software, informed digital habits, and vigilance about what personal information they share online.
