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Online Security
Cyber Security Digital Vulnerabilities Identity Theft Internet Safety Internet Security Awareness NordVPN Online Safety Online Security

NordVPN Survey Finds Most Americans Misunderstand Antivirus Protection Capabilities

 

A new survey by NordVPN, one of the world’s leading cybersecurity firms, has revealed a surprising lack of understanding among Americans about what antivirus software actually does. The study, which polled over 1,000 U.S. residents aged 18 to 74, found that while 52% use antivirus software daily, many hold serious misconceptions about its capabilities — misconceptions that could be putting their online safety at risk. 

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.
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phishing
Biometrics Cyber Security Cybersecurity Online Security Passkeys Password password protection Passwords phishing

Passkeys vs Passwords: Why Passkeys Are the Future of Secure Logins

 

Passwords have long served as the keys to our digital world—granting access to everything from social media to banking apps. Yet, like physical keys, they can easily be lost, copied, or stolen. As cyber threats evolve, new alternatives such as passkeys are stepping in to offer stronger, simpler, and safer ways to log in.

Why passwords remain risky

A password is essentially a secret code you use to prove your identity online. But weak password habits are widespread. A CyberNews report revealed that 94% of 19 billion leaked passwords were reused, and many followed predictable patterns—think “123456,” names, cities, or popular brands.

When breaches occur, these passwords spread rapidly, leading to account takeovers, phishing scams, and identity theft. In fact, hackers often attempt to exploit leaked credentials within an hour of a breach.

Phishing attacks—where users are tricked into entering their passwords on fake websites—continue to rise, with more than 3 billion phishing emails sent daily worldwide.

Experts recommend creating unique, complex passwords or even memorable passphrases like “CrocApplePurseBike.” Associating it with a story can help you recall it easily.

Enter passkeys: a new way to log in

Emerging around four years ago, passkeys use public-key cryptography, a process that creates two linked keys—one public and one private.

  • The public key is shared with the website.

  • The private key stays safely stored on your device.

When you log in, your device signs a unique challenge using the private key, confirming your identity without sending any password. To authorize this action, you’ll usually verify with your fingerprint or face ID, ensuring that only you can access your accounts.

Even if the public key is stolen, it’s useless without the private one—making passkeys inherently phishing-proof and more secure. Each passkey is also unique to the website, so it can’t be reused elsewhere.

Why passkeys are better

Passkeys eliminate the need to remember passwords or type them manually. Since they’re tied to your device and require biometric approval, they’re both more convenient and more secure.

However, the technology isn’t yet universal. Compatibility issues between platforms like Apple and Microsoft have slowed adoption, though these gaps are closing as newer devices and systems improve integration.

The road ahead

From a cybersecurity perspective, passkeys are clearly the superior option—they’re stronger, resistant to phishing, and easy to use. But widespread adoption will take time. Many websites still rely on traditional passwords, and transitioning millions of users will be a long process.

Until then, maintaining good password hygiene remains essential: use unique passwords for every account, enable multi-factor authentication, and change any reused credentials immediately.

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Privacy Risks
2FA 2FA security Authentication Authentication Bypass Cyber Security Online Security Privacy Risks

Two-factor authentication complicates security with privacy risks, unreliability, and permanent lockouts

 

Two-factor authentication has become the default standard for online security, showing up everywhere from banking portals to productivity tools. Its purpose is clear: even if someone steals your credentials, they still need a second verification step, usually through an email code, SMS, or an authenticator app. In theory, this additional barrier makes hacking more difficult, but in practice, the burden often falls more heavily on legitimate users than on attackers. For many people, what should be a security measure becomes a frustrating obstacle course, with multiple windows, constant device switching, and codes arriving at the least convenient times. 

The problem lies in balancing protection with usability. While the odds of a random hacker attempting to log in may be low, users are the ones repeatedly forced through verification loops. VPN usage adds to the issue, since changing IP addresses often triggers additional checks. Instead of making accounts safer, the process can feel more like punishment for ordinary login attempts. 

Despite being promoted as a cornerstone of modern cybersecurity, two-factor authentication is only as strong as the delivery method. SMS codes remain widely used, even though SIM swapping is a well-documented threat. Email-based codes can also be problematic—if someone gains access to your primary inbox, they inherit every linked account. Even Big Tech companies sometimes struggle with reliable implementation, with failed code deliveries or inconsistent prompts leaving users stranded. A network outage or downtime at a provider can completely block access to essential services. 

Beyond inconvenience, 2FA introduces hidden privacy and security trade-offs. Every login generates more email or text messages, forcing users to hand over personal phone numbers and email addresses to multiple companies. This not only clutters inboxes but also creates new opportunities for spam or unwanted marketing. Providers like email hosts and carriers gain visibility into user activity, tracking which apps are accessed and when, raising further concerns about surveillance and data use. For users who value a clean inbox and minimal exposure, the system feels invasive rather than protective. 

The most damaging consequence is the risk of permanent lockouts. Losing access to a backup email or phone number can create a cascade of failures that trap users outside critical accounts. Recovery systems, often automated or handled by AI chatbots, provide little flexibility. Some users have experienced losing access entirely because verification codes went to accounts with their own 2FA requirements, resulting in a cycle that cannot be broken. The fallout can disrupt personal, academic, and professional life, with little recourse available. 

While two-factor authentication was designed as an essential layer of defense against account takeovers, its execution often causes more harm than good. Between unreliability, privacy risks, inbox clutter, and the looming threat of irreversible lockouts, the cost of this security tool raises serious questions about whether its benefits truly outweigh the risks.
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Password Manager
cybersecurity tips Data Breach delete old accounts identity theft protection Online Security Password Manager

Why It’s Critical to Delete Old Online Accounts Before They Endanger Your Security

 

Most people underestimate just how many online accounts they’ve signed up for over the years. From grocery delivery and fitness apps to medical portals and smart home devices, every service requires an account—and almost all require personal information.

Research by NordPass last year revealed that the average person manages close to 170 passwords for different accounts. For anyone who has spent a significant part of their life online, that figure is likely much higher.

Abandoned or forgotten accounts still hold sensitive data—your name, email, address, birthdate, and payment information. All this information is exactly what shows up in massive data breaches and is precisely what cybercriminals look for.

In an era where data leaks often compile older breaches into vast collections of stolen personal details, inactive accounts lacking updated protections like strong passwords or two-factor authentication become major security liabilities.

Once hackers gain access to your information, they can leverage it in countless ways. For example, if they compromise your email or social media, they can impersonate you to launch phishing attacks or send scams to your contacts. They might also try to trick your friends and colleagues into downloading malware.

Dormant accounts can hold even more sensitive material, such as scans of IDs or insurance documents, which can be exploited for identity theft or fraud. Accounts with saved financial information are an even bigger risk since attackers can drain funds or resell the details on dark web marketplaces.

Deleting old accounts is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to strengthen your online security. It may seem tedious, but it’s something you can easily do while catching up on your favorite shows.

Start by searching your email inbox for common registration keywords like “welcome,” “thank you for signing up,” “verify account,” or “validate account.” A password manager can also help you see which logins you’ve saved over time.

Check the saved password lists in your browser:
  • Chrome: Settings > Passwords
  • Safari: Preferences > Passwords
  • Firefox: Preferences > Privacy & Security > Saved Logins
  • Edge: Settings > Profiles > Passwords > Saved Passwords
Many services let you sign in with Google, Facebook, Twitter, or Apple ID. Review the list of connected apps and services—while disconnecting them doesn’t automatically delete accounts, it shows what you need to remove.

Visit Have I Been Pwned? to check if your email has been involved in breaches. This resource can remind you of forgotten accounts and alert you to which passwords should be changed immediately.

If you spot apps you no longer use on your phone or laptop, log in, close the accounts, and delete the apps from your device. Some antivirus tools, such as Bitdefender, offer features to find all accounts you’ve created using your email with a single click.

Certain platforms intentionally make deletion difficult. If you’re struggling, search the site’s name along with “delete account,” or use justdelete.me, a helpful directory with step-by-step removal guides. If that fails, reach out to the site’s support team.

If you cannot fully delete an account, take steps to minimize the risk:

  • Remove saved payment information.
  • Delete personal details such as your name, birthdate, and shipping address.
  • Clear any stored files or sensitive messages.
  • Use a fake name and a disposable email like Mailinator.

Before creating new accounts in the future, consider whether you can use a guest checkout or a dedicated email address just for sign-ups.

For accounts you decide to keep, always update your passwords, store them securely in a password manager, and enable multi-factor authentication or passkeys to strengthen security.
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Online Security
Cyber Scammers Cyber Security Dark Web Dark web malware Dark web marketplace Dark Web Monitoring Illegal Sites Malwares Online Security

Why Exploring the Dark Web Can Lead to Legal Trouble, Malware, and Emotional Harm

 

Venturing into the dark web may seem intriguing to some, but even well-intentioned users are exposed to significant risks. While many people associate the dark web with illegal activity, they may not realize that just browsing these hidden spaces can lead to serious consequences, both legal and emotional. Unlike the regulated surface web, the dark web operates with little to no oversight, which makes stumbling across disturbing or illicit content dangerously easy.

A simple click on an unfamiliar link can redirect users to graphic or illegal material. This content is not always clearly labeled, and visitors may not realize what they’re seeing until it’s too late. In several jurisdictions, merely viewing certain types of content—whether or not you meant to—can have legal repercussions. Users may also experience lasting psychological impact after encountering explicit or violent media. Reports of anxiety, stress, and trauma are not uncommon, even among casual users who were simply exploring out of curiosity.  

Malware, spyware, and keyloggers are often disguised as legitimate downloads or hidden in popular tools. Many websites host dangerous files designed to infect your device as soon as they are opened. Even privacy-focused platforms like Tor can’t fully shield users from malicious code or phishing attempts, especially when browsers are misconfigured or when users interact with suspicious content. 

Technical errors—like enabling JavaScript, resizing your browser window, or leaking DNS requests—can also expose your identity, even if you’re using encrypted tools. Cybersecurity professionals warn that mistakes like these are common and can be exploited by attackers or even government agencies. Law enforcement agencies actively monitor known dark web nodes and can use advanced techniques to track user behavior, collect metadata, and build profiles for surveillance. 

Additionally, scammers thrive in the anonymous environment of the dark web. Fake login portals, spoofed forums, and crypto wallet traps are rampant. And if you’re scammed, there’s little you can do—there are no refund options or customer service teams to help you recover lost funds or data. 

The dark web is often underestimated, constant exposure to unsettling content and the need to stay hyper-aware of threats can wear down a person’s sense of safety and trust. In many cases, the psychological damage can linger far longer than the browsing session itself. 

In short, exploring the dark web without a thorough understanding of the dangers can backfire. It’s a space where curiosity offers no protection, and the consequences—ranging from infections and identity loss to legal charges and emotional distress—can affect even the most cautious users.
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Privacy
AI Chatbot Ai Data AI Security AI Techniques Chatbots Cloud Security Data Privacy Data Usage Online Security Privacy

PocketPal AI Brings Offline AI Chatbot Experience to Smartphones With Full Data Privacy

 

In a digital world where most AI chatbots rely on cloud computing and constant internet connectivity, PocketPal AI takes a different approach by offering an entirely offline, on-device chatbot experience. This free app brings AI processing power directly onto your smartphone, eliminating the need to send data back and forth across the internet. Conventional AI chatbots typically transmit your interactions to distant servers, where the data is processed before a response is returned. That means even sensitive or routine conversations can be stored remotely, raising concerns about privacy, data usage, and the potential for misuse.

PocketPal AI flips this model by handling all computation on your device, ensuring your data never leaves your phone unless you explicitly choose to save or share it. This local processing model is especially useful in areas with unreliable internet or no access at all. Whether you’re traveling in rural regions, riding the metro, or flying, PocketPal AI works seamlessly without needing a connection. 

Additionally, using an AI offline helps reduce mobile data consumption and improves speed, since there’s no delay waiting for server responses. The app is available on both iOS and Android and offers users the ability to interact with compact but capable language models. While you do need an internet connection during the initial setup to download a language model, once that’s done, PocketPal AI functions completely offline. To begin, users select a model from the app’s library or upload one from their device or from the Hugging Face community. 

Although the app lists models without detailed descriptions, users can consult external resources to understand which model is best for their needs—whether it’s from Meta, Microsoft, or another developer. After downloading a model—most of which are several gigabytes in size—users simply tap “Load” to activate the model, enabling conversations with their new offline assistant. 

For those more technically inclined, PocketPal AI includes advanced settings for switching between models, adjusting inference behavior, and testing performance. While these features offer great flexibility, they’re likely best suited for power users. On high-end devices like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, PocketPal AI runs smoothly and delivers fast responses. 

However, older or budget devices may face slower load times or stuttering performance due to limited memory and processing power. Because offline models must be optimized for device constraints, they tend to be smaller in size and capabilities compared to cloud-based systems. As a result, while PocketPal AI handles common queries, light content generation, and basic conversations well, it may not match the contextual depth and complexity of large-scale models hosted in the cloud. 

Even with these trade-offs, PocketPal AI offers a powerful solution for users seeking AI assistance without sacrificing privacy or depending on an internet connection. It delivers a rare combination of utility, portability, and data control in today’s cloud-dominated AI ecosystem. 

As privacy awareness and concerns about centralized data storage continue to grow, PocketPal AI represents a compelling alternative—one that puts users back in control of their digital interactions, no matter where they are.
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US Citizens
Business Safety Cyber Security Online Security Threat Landscape US Citizens

Digital Danger Zone: America's Rising Cybersecurity Threats

 

A major firm being hacked, facing a cyber threat, or having critical digital data leaked seems to make headlines every day. Cyberattacks increased dramatically worldwide in the first quarter of 2025, with an average of 1,925 attacks per organisation per week. Compared to the same period in 2024, that is an astounding 47% increase. 

The personal information of hundreds of thousands of Americans has been made public by high-profile hacks at organisations like Ticketmaster, AT&T, and UnitedHealth. These kinds of attacks have turned cybersecurity from a technical issue to a national security and economic one. 

New cybercrime front lines 

With cyberattacks expected to skyrocket in 2025, many Americans are investigating what's driving this digital crime wave. One significant factor is our increasing reliance on the internet. As more people and organisations share personal and financial information online, fraudsters' targets have grown in size and profitability. 

The transition to remote employment has also provided new opportunities for attackers. Employees working from home, coffee shops, or communal spaces frequently use unprotected networks and personal devices that lack the security of a corporate IT system. 

Adding to the difficulty, fraudsters are increasingly using artificial intelligence to make their attacks faster, smarter, and more challenging to detect. AI-powered tools enable hackers to automate phishing emails, impersonate reputable websites, and even crack passwords at breakneck speed. As a result, traditional cybersecurity defences are unable to keep pace.

Infrastructure flaws

Cyberattacks are endangering not only private businesses, but also the systems that keep the government functioning. The US Department of Homeland Security has identified sixteen critical infrastructure sectors as crucial to national security, public health, and economic stability. These include energy, healthcare, water systems, financial services, and transportation, among others. 

A successful cyberattack on any of them might result in widespread disruptions, ranging from power outages to delayed emergency services. Ransomware assaults have recently targeted hospitals, oil pipelines, and even public transportation systems, indicating that these sectors are becoming increasingly vulnerable to both cybercriminals and state actors. 

One of the most high-profile incidents occurred in 2021, when a ransomware group targeted the Colonial Pipeline. The attack forced a temporary stoppage of the pipeline, resulting in fuel shortages and price increases across the Southeastern United States. Colonial later paid the hackers $4.4 million in cryptocurrencies to restore its servers. That attack, and others like it, have raised fears that essential utilities and infrastructure are still vulnerable to foreign intrusion. As cyberthreats advance, many experts fear that future attacks may have far larger and more severe consequences.

Remain cautious 

With AI making hacks easier than ever, it is critical to keep ahead of the curve. New legislation, such as updated data privacy laws and tougher cybersecurity regulations, can help safeguard both businesses and citizens from these emerging threats. Beyond legislation, public awareness is crucial. 

Americans should be aware of the most prevalent cybercrime strategies, such as phishing emails, deep fakes, and social engineering frauds. As AI-generated material gets more convincing, fraudulent actors have an easier time impersonating trusted sources or manipulating digital identities. 

Cybersecurity experts emphasise the importance of integrating digital literacy into ordinary education. Small efforts, such as multi-factor authentication and safe browsing practices, can help to reduce risk significantly. Staying vigilant in the age of AI-enhanced cybercrime is not just sensible, but also critical.
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Threat Landscape
Cyber Warfare Online Security Russia-Ukraine War Technology Threat Landscape

The Rise of Cyber Warfare and Its Global Implications

 

In Western society, the likelihood of cyberattacks is arguably higher now than it has ever been. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) advised UK organisations to strengthen their cyber security when Russia launched its attack on Ukraine in early 2022. In a similar vein, the FBI and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued warnings about increased risks to US companies. 

There is no doubt that during times of global transition and turmoil, cyber security becomes a battlefield in its own right, with both state and non-state actors increasingly turning to cyber-attacks to gain an advantage in combat. Furthermore, as technology advances and an increasing number of devices connect to the internet, the scope and sophistication of cyber-attacks has grown significantly. 

Cyber warfare can take numerous forms, such as breaking into enemy state computer systems, spreading malware, and executing denial-of-service assaults. If a cyber threat infiltrates the right systems, entire towns and cities may be shut off from information, services, and infrastructure that have become fundamental to our way of life, such as electricity, online banking systems, and the internet. 

The European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) believes that cyber warfare poses a substantial and growing threat to vital infrastructure. Its research on the "Threat Landscape for Foreign Information Manipulation Interference (FIMI)" states that key infrastructure, such as electricity and healthcare, is especially vulnerable to cyber-attacks during times of conflict or political tension.

In addition, cyber-attacks can disrupt banking systems, inflicting immediate economic loss and affecting individuals. According to the report, residents were a secondary target in more than half of the incidents analysed. Cyber-attacks are especially effective at manipulating public perceptions through, at the most basic level, inconvenience, to the most serious level, which could result in the loss of life. 

Risk to businesses 

War and military conflicts can foster a business environment susceptible to cyber-attacks, since enemies may seek to target firms or sectors deemed critical to a country's economy or infrastructure. They may also choose symbolic targets, like media outlets or high-profile businesses connected with a country. 

Furthermore, the use of cyber-attacks in war can produce a broad sense of instability and uncertainty, which can be exploited to exploit vulnerabilities in firms' cyber defences.

Cyber-attacks on a company's computer systems, networks, and servers can cause delays and shutdowns, resulting in direct loss of productivity and money. However, they can also harm reputation, prompt regulatory action (including the imposition of fines), and result in consumer loss. 

Prevention tips

To mitigate these risks, firms can take proactive actions to increase their cyber defences, such as self-critical auditing and third-party testing. Employees should also be trained to identify and respond to cyber risks. Furthermore, firms should conduct frequent security assessments to detect vulnerabilities and adopt mitigation techniques.
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