NordVPN Survey Finds Most Americans Misunderstand Antivirus Protection Capabilities

A new survey by NordVPN, one of the world’s leading cybersecurity firms, has revealed a surprising lack of understanding among Americans about what antivirus software actually does. The study, which polled over 1,000 U.S. residents aged 18 to 74, found that while 52% use antivirus software daily, many hold serious misconceptions about its capabilities — misconceptions that could be putting their online safety at risk. 

According to the findings, more than a quarter of respondents incorrectly believe that antivirus software offers complete protection against all online threats. Others assume it can prevent identity theft, block phishing scams, or secure public Wi-Fi connections — functions that go far beyond what antivirus tools are designed to do. NordVPN’s Chief Technology Officer, Marijus Briedis, said the confusion highlights a troubling lack of cybersecurity awareness. “People tend to confuse different technologies and overestimate their capabilities,” he explained. “Some Americans don’t realize antivirus software’s main job is to detect and remove malware, not prevent identity theft or data breaches. This gap in understanding shows how much more cybersecurity education is needed.” 

The survey also found that many Americans mix up antivirus software with other digital security tools, such as firewalls, password managers, ad blockers, and VPNs. This misunderstanding can create a false sense of security, leaving users vulnerable to attacks. Even more concerning, over one-third of those surveyed reported

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