- NordVPN’s next-gen antivirus blocked 96% of phishing sites in AV-Comparatives’ 2026 test
- The software perfectly distinguished between active malicious links and 200 legitimate banking URLs
- Detection rates increased by 6% compared to the previous test in May 2025
When you’re looking for the best VPN to secure your online traffic, you increasingly need an app that does more than just encrypt your data. As phishing attacks become more sophisticated, top providers are developing robust, all-in-one cybersecurity suites, and independent testing shows that these built-in tools make a real impact.
In the recently released 2026 Anti-Phishing Comparative Test by independent cybersecurity evaluation authority AV-Comparatives, NordVPN’s next-generation antivirus achieved a massive 96% phishing detection rate.
Even better for users who hate annoying pop-ups that block safe internet browsing, the software managed this impressively high blocking rate with absolutely zero false positives.
The results highlight a constant improvement for the provider. Compared to the last AV-Comparatives test of this kind in May 2025, NordVPN’s phishing detection has improved by 6%.
Testing the antivirus program
To put the software through its paces, AV-Comparatives ran its test between May 11 and May 22, 2026. Reviewers threw 275 active phishing URLs against the latest product version of NordVPN’s next-generation antivirus available at the time. These malicious links specifically targeted personal data across popular platforms including PayPal, online banking portals, email services and social media networks.
To make sure the antivirus didn’t just blindly block everything, the testers also introduced 200 legitimate banking URLs to validate the false positives. NordVPN safely allowed the right websites through while neutralizing the threats.
“Phishing sites today are sophisticated enough to fool almost anyone, and most people shouldn’t have to become cybersecurity experts just to stay safe online,” said Domininkas Virbickas, Product Director at NordVPN. “Results like these are exactly the kind of protection that makes a real difference to people’s daily lives.”
This is not the first time the company has impressed the ISO-certified independent testing company. Back in June 2024, NordVPN became the first VPN service provider to be approved for AV-Comparative’s anti-phishing protection mark. To achieve this certification, software must detect and block at least 85% of phishing URLs without causing false alarms on legitimate banking services and related websites.
How to recognize phishing websites
While using a premium service, like the next-generation antivirus available with a NordVPN Complete subscription, is powerful protection, threat actors are constantly evolving their tactics. Maintaining good digital hygiene remains essential.
In addition to using reliable cybersecurity software, NordVPN recommends users follow a few simple tips to avoid getting caught:
- Verify the URL: Always check your browser’s address bar. Watch out for subtle variations in a domain name, suspicious prefixes, or being unexpectedly redirected to a subpage instead of a home page.
- Read the text carefully: If an unsolicited email or message urges you to take immediate action or tries to induce panic, take a step back. Check carefully for typos or other errors.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding another step, such as a one-time code sent to your phone, ensures that even if a hacker steals your password, they won’t be able to access your account.
- Check the website protocol: Make sure the site uses a secure HTTPS connection. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar; spoofed URLs often use only unsecured HTTP protocols.
