NordVPN now scans apps on users’ devices for vulnerabilities and alerts you to take measures to plug security gaps.
In a press release on Monday, the company said its new feature, dubbed “Vulnerability Detection,” checks apps on users’ devices against a vast database of known vulnerabilities.
“The vulnerability detection feature automatically checks the applications for known security flaws that hackers may exploit to gain unauthorized access to devices and sensitive information. If vulnerability detection identifies an open-to-attack app on a computer, it immediately sends the user a notification so they can take action to protect their data and devices,” Vykintas Maknickas, head of product strategy at NordVPN, said.
Vulnerability Detection is integrated into NordVPN’s Threat Protection solution, which is available to subscribers at no extra cost. This feature will be officially available on the NordVPN Windows app, starting with version 7.15. It’s unclear when Vulnerability Detection will be available on NordVPN apps for other operating systems.
How NordVPN’s ‘Vulnerability Detection’ Works
NordVPN’s Vulnerability Detection automatically scans for software vulnerabilities and identifies potential security risks. When vulnerabilities are found, users are notified of the flaws.
NordVPN checks apps against a comprehensive database of different app versions and known vulnerabilities that affect them. “At this point, the vulnerability detection feature checks around 150 million applications daily and detects vulnerabilities in about 100 thousand applications used by Windows users,” NordVPN said.
If NordVPN detects vulnerable apps on your device, you’ll receive a notification to update the affected app. If no update is available, users are encouraged to visit the developer’s website for the latest version. “If the software owner doesn’t offer security patches to fix the vulnerability and you decide on using a vulnerable app, be wary of possible cyber dangers,” NordVPN said in a blog post.
Vulnerability Detection uses a scoring system to indicate the severity of security flaws, ranging from 0.1 to 3.9 for low-level vulnerabilities and 9.0 to 10.0 for critical vulnerabilities.
“The higher the number, the more severe the vulnerability hackers may exploit to steal money, an identity, or sensitive data,” NordVPN explained.
NordVPN Approach’s Approach to Enhancing Cybersecurity
Vulnerability Detection reflects NordVPN’s commitment to protecting users from complex and evolving cyber threats. The company has unveiled several innovative projects this year, including an experimental platform for testing new technologies called NordLabs, launched in August. And, in September, NordVPN unveiled Sonar, an AI-powered tool that identifies phishing emails.
During an exclusive interview with VPNOverview in November, Marijus Briedis, the CTO of NordVPN, said the company is also working on other new products, including an advanced AI-powered malware protection tool. NordVPN is also testing ways to integrate cutting-edge quantum technology into its products.
How to Use NordVPN’s ‘Vulnerability Detection’
Follow the steps below to use NordVPN’s new Vulnerability Detection feature:
- Subscribe to NordVPN.
- Install the NordVPN Windows app and log in.
- Click the shield at the top-left corner and open Threat Protection.
- Press “Turn on” in the “Vulnerability Detection” card.
NordVPN has many other useful security features, like Meshnet, specialty servers, and double VPN. This VPN service also has a verified no-logs policy and uses military-grade encryption to protect your data. Read our NordVPN review to discover why it’s our top-rated VPN.
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