NordVPN Releases Alarming Statistics on Malware and Phishing Attacks
In an alarming revelation, NordVPN, a leading personal security service supplier headquartered in Amsterdam, recently disclosed its analysis of security threats encountered by users worldwide. Over a three-month span from April to June 2025, data collected from the company's security tool, Threat Protection Pro, showed that numerous malware and phishing attempts were blocked, with an average of 223 incidents of malware detected per device in Japan alone.
The need for robust online security is underscored by the growing severity of cyber threats, which now target individuals and corporations alike. According to various public organizations in Japan, the sophistication of malware and phishing schemes is escalating, necessitating effective defenses against these emerging challenges. In light of these growing threats, NordVPN has meticulously compiled detection logs to analyze the types of malware and fraudulent websites most frequently encountered by users.
From the data collected, the sensational statistics revealed that 28 million threats were thwarted in the United States, 10.3 million in the United Kingdom, and significant numbers in Australia, Nigeria, and Israel as well. Here in Japan, the detection of approximately 3.8 million malware instances indicates that the threat is widespread and should be treated with serious concern. This average of 223 malware attacks detected per device is a stark reminder of the global scale of escalating malware activity.
In addition to the sheer volume of threats, NordVPN's analysis shed light on file extensions that most commonly harbor malware. The findings revealed that executable program files with the '.exe' extension were responsible for the detection of a staggering 181,008 malware threats. Other commonly used file types like '.zip' and '.pdf' also revealed potential risks. Due to their frequent use in personal and professional communication, malicious files can easily be disguised, making unsuspecting users vulnerable to attacks.
Among the most alarming insights is the prevalence of well-known brands being used as cover for cybercriminal activities. Online platforms such as Google and Yahoo!, which we regularly engage with, are often impersonated by malicious actors who create phishing schemes to extract sensitive data, including passwords and credit card information. Users need to exercise caution, as even innocuously clicking on a dubious link can lead to severe consequences.
To combat these threats, Marius Brieidis, the Chief Technology Officer of NordVPN, has proposed a five-point strategy for safeguarding against online vulnerabilities:
1. Utilize Strong Passwords and Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: Maintain unique passwords for various accounts and always set up MFA.
2. Exercise Caution with Free Offers: Be wary of 'free' videos or streaming services that may conceal malware, particularly those from unknown domains.
3. Check Links Before Clicking: Scrutinize the spelling and format of URLs prior to clicking on them.
4. Download Only from Trustworthy Sites: Avoid downloading files from unofficial websites and conduct virus checks using tools like Threat Protection Pro after downloading.
5. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and security software to resolve vulnerabilities.
"This survey reveals that online threats are not only increasing in number, but also becoming more sophisticated in their tactics," commented Marius Brieidis. "Modern internet users are exposed to a landscape of complex and evolving digital threats daily. Cybercriminals are skillfully exploiting our trust in well-known brands and common internet practices to gain access to confidential information without arousing suspicion. In this environment, it is paramount to understand the risks accurately and to develop the ability to identify cyber dangers."
For further details, visit: NordVPN Research
About NordVPN
NordVPN is an advanced VPN service provider with millions of users worldwide. Boasting over 7,600 servers in 118 countries, its features include dedicated IP, Double VPN, and Onion Over VPN configurations to enhance online privacy without tracking. One of its key offerings, Threat Protection Pro, not only blocks harmful websites and trackers but also scans for malware. Furthermore, NordVPN has launched 'Saily', a global eSIM service designed for travelers, allowing seamless data communication without the need to purchase local SIM cards.
Company Information
Company: NordVPN
Headquarters: Fred. Roeskestraat 115, 1076 EE Amsterdam, Netherlands
Japan Representative: Taku Obara
NordVPN Website
About VPN
The need for robust online security is underscored by the growing severity of cyber threats, which now target individuals and corporations alike. According to various public organizations in Japan, the sophistication of malware and phishing schemes is escalating, necessitating effective defenses against these emerging challenges. In light of these growing threats, NordVPN has meticulously compiled detection logs to analyze the types of malware and fraudulent websites most frequently encountered by users.
From the data collected, the sensational statistics revealed that 28 million threats were thwarted in the United States, 10.3 million in the United Kingdom, and significant numbers in Australia, Nigeria, and Israel as well. Here in Japan, the detection of approximately 3.8 million malware instances indicates that the threat is widespread and should be treated with serious concern. This average of 223 malware attacks detected per device is a stark reminder of the global scale of escalating malware activity.
In addition to the sheer volume of threats, NordVPN's analysis shed light on file extensions that most commonly harbor malware. The findings revealed that executable program files with the '.exe' extension were responsible for the detection of a staggering 181,008 malware threats. Other commonly used file types like '.zip' and '.pdf' also revealed potential risks. Due to their frequent use in personal and professional communication, malicious files can easily be disguised, making unsuspecting users vulnerable to attacks.
Among the most alarming insights is the prevalence of well-known brands being used as cover for cybercriminal activities. Online platforms such as Google and Yahoo!, which we regularly engage with, are often impersonated by malicious actors who create phishing schemes to extract sensitive data, including passwords and credit card information. Users need to exercise caution, as even innocuously clicking on a dubious link can lead to severe consequences.
To combat these threats, Marius Brieidis, the Chief Technology Officer of NordVPN, has proposed a five-point strategy for safeguarding against online vulnerabilities:
1. Utilize Strong Passwords and Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: Maintain unique passwords for various accounts and always set up MFA.
2. Exercise Caution with Free Offers: Be wary of 'free' videos or streaming services that may conceal malware, particularly those from unknown domains.
3. Check Links Before Clicking: Scrutinize the spelling and format of URLs prior to clicking on them.
4. Download Only from Trustworthy Sites: Avoid downloading files from unofficial websites and conduct virus checks using tools like Threat Protection Pro after downloading.
5. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, applications, and security software to resolve vulnerabilities.
"This survey reveals that online threats are not only increasing in number, but also becoming more sophisticated in their tactics," commented Marius Brieidis. "Modern internet users are exposed to a landscape of complex and evolving digital threats daily. Cybercriminals are skillfully exploiting our trust in well-known brands and common internet practices to gain access to confidential information without arousing suspicion. In this environment, it is paramount to understand the risks accurately and to develop the ability to identify cyber dangers."
For further details, visit: NordVPN Research
About NordVPN
NordVPN is an advanced VPN service provider with millions of users worldwide. Boasting over 7,600 servers in 118 countries, its features include dedicated IP, Double VPN, and Onion Over VPN configurations to enhance online privacy without tracking. One of its key offerings, Threat Protection Pro, not only blocks harmful websites and trackers but also scans for malware. Furthermore, NordVPN has launched 'Saily', a global eSIM service designed for travelers, allowing seamless data communication without the need to purchase local SIM cards.
Company Information
Company: NordVPN
Headquarters: Fred. Roeskestraat 115, 1076 EE Amsterdam, Netherlands
Japan Representative: Taku Obara
NordVPN Website
About VPN
Topics Other）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.