NordVPN’s Threat Protection works independently of your NordVPN connection and protects you from harmful sites, web trackers, malware-infected files, and malicious ads.
There are two versions of the feature: Threat Protection and Threat Protection Lite.
In this guide, I’ll explore what Threat Protection involves, its benefits, and how to set it up.
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What Is NordVPN’s Threat Protection?
Threat Protection (previously CyberSec) is a security feature on the NordVPN application that protects users from accessing malicious websites, ads, trackers, and programs.
Although it isn’t a full-fledged antivirus program, it has similar features.
For example, it can scan executable files on your device and alert you if any harmful programs exist. Let’s take a closer look at everything.
Malware Blocking
Threat Protection stops you from accidentally accessing malicious sites.
It also runs deep scans on downloaded files (up to 20MB) to test for malware and deletes any problematic files before they infect your device. However, it doesn’t scan non-executable files or any files with personal details like DOCXs and PDFs.
Tracker Blocker
Many sites online are awash with third-party trackers that track your browsing habits and store your data. They then utilize this data to develop your digital footprint and bombard you with adverts or encourage you to purchase something you don’t need.
The threat protection feature will take care of this by blocking any trackers so that you browse securely without being traced.
Ad-Blocker
Threat Protection has an ad blocker that counters malicious and intrusive ads before they load. This means you can browse safely, download, and even stream content smoothly and interruption-free.
Weekly Report
Each week, NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature will create your weekly protection summary. The main goal here is to give you total control over your digital hygiene.
The report will show all the blocked malicious sites, ads, trackers, and malware.
Analyzing the report’s details can help you determine which browsing habits and sites to avoid in the future so you can stay safe online.
That said, there are 2 two versions of Threat protection: Threat Protection and Threat Protection Lite.
What Is Threat Protection Lite?
The feature works on the DNS level, evaluating and filtering your traffic.
It blocks any IP addresses known for malicious and intrusive ads or content hosting. However, unlike Threat Protection, it doesn’t scan any downloaded files or block trackers. Also, for it to work, you must be connected to NordVPN.
The table below distills the differences between Threat Protection and Threat protection Lite:
| Threat Protection | Threat Protection Lite |
|---|---|
| Works even when your device is not connected to a VPN server | Must be connected to a VPN server for it to work |
| Available on macOS and Android | Available on iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Linux, Windows, macOS, Edge |
| Blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites | Blocks ads and malicious sites |
| Scans malware and suspicious files |
How to Use NordVPN’s Threat Protection Feature?
You must have an active NordVPN subscription to enable the Threat Protection feature.
If you don’t have one yet, you can get it here. Then, follow the steps below to activate the feature:
- Download and install the NordVPN app for Mac or Windows. In this example, we’ll use Windows.
- Open the NordVPN app and click the “shield” icon.
- Next, toggle the Threat Protection button “ON.”
- Optional: Click “Settings” to enable more features. I recommend the “Deep-scan files for threats” and “DNS filtering” options.
How to Use Threat Protection Lite on Android?
Follow the steps below to use Threat Protection Lite on Android:
- Download and install NordVPN’s app from Google Play Store.
- Launch the app and log in.
- Connect to your preferred server.
- Select the “Profile” icon on your bottom right.
- On your top right, select the “Settings” icon.
- Scroll down and toggle on “Threat Protection Lite.”
How to Use Threat Protection Lite on PC?
Follow the steps below to set up the Threat Protection Lite feature:
- Launch the NordVPN app.
- On the top left-hand corner, click the shield icon to open Threat Protection.
- Toggle ON “Use Lite version.”
FAQs
Is NordVPN Threat Protection Free?
NordVPN Threat Protection is free if you have an active NordVPN subscription.
Is the NordVPN Threat Protection the Same as an Antivirus?
Threat Protection isn’t the same as an antivirus, but it has similar features like keeping you safe from malicious files, sites, and intrusive adverts.
Which Browsers Support Threat Protection?
NordVPN Threat Protection is available for all major browsers, including Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Firefox. If you’re a Firefox user, ensure you restart the browser after enabling Threat Protection.
Say Goodbye to Malvertising and Intrusive Ads
The NordVPN Threat Protection goes beyond protecting you from malicious ads and web trackers. It also protects against malware-infected files and sites.
Additionally, the feature generates a 7-day report detailing all the blocked sites, ads, trackers, and identified infected files.
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