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Vulnerability scanner: Scan your software for weaknesses
Scan apps to detect vulnerabilities
No scanning limits — check any app, at any time
Available with Threat Protection Pro™ for Windows
What is app vulnerability?
App vulnerability is a flaw or a weakness in an app that can be used by malicious actors. Cybercriminals are constantly on the lookout for such weak spots that, like a chink in your armor, can be targeted to attack the app or the whole device. Successful vulnerability exploits could lead to data breaches and even total system takeover, so vulnerability management and mitigation have become essential parts of modern application security strategies.
How vulnerabilities get into apps
Even the most skilled developers can accidentally leave errors in their code. These mistakes can create openings for cyberattacks, like the SQL injection attack.
Software doesn’t always function as intended. Creators sometimes accidentally leave bugs in the app that make it behave in a certain way that becomes a gateway for malicious actors.
Many apps use third-party libraries or components. If these are not regularly patched and contain vulnerabilities themselves, the software that depends on it might also be in danger.
Insufficient or nonexistent security checks allow unauthorized users to access restricted files and systems without logging in.
If you use software that’s completely safe and update the operating system on your device, the software could start malfunctioning because it is no longer fully compatible with the new OS.
What is Threat Protection Pro’s vulnerability scanning feature?
Our application vulnerability scanner automatically scans software on your Windows device to detect flaws that could be exploited by cybercriminals. If Threat Protection Pro™ finds any known security vulnerabilities, it notifies you immediately so you can take action (such as patching the application in question) to ensure your data and device are protected.
Why should I enable the vulnerability scanner?
Minimize the chance of potential attacks
Malicious actors are always looking for an easy way in. If your software is updated and secure, you’re less likely to be targeted because there’s usually nothing for them to exploit.
Be the first to know
If that niche sound mixing software you use has a major vulnerability, you’re unlikely to hear about it in the news. But NordVPN’s vulnerability scanner will notify you personally.
Get additional device protection without hassle
Once you enable the vulnerability scanner, there’s nothing else for you to do. It will work 24/7, scan automatically, and keep your device and data safer than before.
It doesn’t cost extra
You don’t have to pay more for the vulnerability scanner — all NordVPN plans apart from Basic have Threat Protection Pro™ included in their subscription. Simply install the app, turn Threat Protection Pro™ on, and let it silently protect you against security threats in the background.
How to enable the vulnerability scanner on NordVPN
If you want NordVPN to scan your Windows PC for software vulnerabilities, follow these steps:
01
Open the NordVPN app
Launch the NordVPN app on your device and log in with your credentials.
02
Click the shield
Select the shield icon on the left-hand side to open the Threat Protection Pro™ section.
03
Turn it on
Toggle Threat Protection Pro™ on to enable vulnerability scanning and other protective measures.
Software vulnerability in numbers
Exploring the data reveals just how common and dangerous software vulnerabilities are.
2000
new vulnerabilities are discovered each month.
3 out of 4
of applications have at least one security flaw.
84%
of companies have high-risk vulnerabilities in their networks.