- NordVPN’s next-generation antivirus blocked 96% of phishing sites in 2026 AV-Comparatives 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 protect your online traffic, you increasingly need an app that does more than just encrypt your data. As phishing attacks become more sophisticated, leading vendors are evolving toward robust all-in-one cybersecurity suites, and independent testing shows these integrated tools are having a real impact.
In the recently released 2026 anti-phishing benchmark test by independent cybersecurity testing authority AV-Comparatives, NordVPN’s next-generation antivirus achieved a whopping 96% phishing detection rate.
Even better for users who hate annoying pop-ups that block safe internet browsing, the software achieved this impressively high blocking rate without any false positives.
The results highlight constant improvement for the supplier. Compared to the last such test from AV-Comparatives in May 2025, NordVPN’s phishing detection has improved by 6%.
Testing the antivirus
To put the software to the test, AV-Comparatives conducted its tests between May 11 and May 22, 2026. Testers returned 275 active phishing URLs on the most recent version of NordVPN’s next-generation antivirus product available at the time. These malicious links specifically targeted personal data on popular platforms, including PayPal, online banking portals, email services and social networks.
To ensure that the antivirus wasn’t just blindly blocking everything, the testers also entered 200 legitimate banking URLs to validate the false positive results. NordVPN allowed secure passage to real sites while neutralizing threats.
“Today, phishing sites 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, chief product officer at NordVPN. “Results like these are exactly the kind of protection that makes a real difference in people’s daily lives.”
This is not the first time the company has impressed the ISO-certified independent testing company. In June 2024, NordVPN became the first VPN service provider approved to earn the AV-Comparatives anti-phishing protection badge. To earn this certification, the software must detect and block at least 85% of phishing URLs without causing false alarms on legitimate and banking-related sites.
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 crucial.
In addition to using reliable cybersecurity software, NordVPN recommends users follow some simple tips to avoid getting caught:
- Check the URL: Always inspect your browser’s address bar. Beware of 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 act immediately or attempts to cause panic, take a step back. Watch for typos or other errors.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding a second 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 lock icon in the address bar; Spoofed URLs often only use insecure HTTP protocols.
