Key Gotchas

  • 🔓 Past Security Breach Concerns High Impact

    NordVPN experienced a server breach in 2018 that wasn't disclosed until 2019. While they've since improved security, the delayed disclosure raises transparency questions.

  • 📢 Aggressive Marketing Practices Medium Impact

    NordVPN's marketing often overstates threats and uses fear-based messaging. Sponsored content and affiliate reviews make it hard to find unbiased information.

  • 🔄 Auto-Renewal Complications Medium Impact

    Multi-year plans auto-renew at higher rates. Cancellation must happen before renewal, and the process isn't always straightforward in the interface.

  • 📊 Some Connection Logging Medium Impact

    While NordVPN claims "no logs," they do collect some data including timestamps and bandwidth usage. Not all "no-log" claims are equal.

Score Breakdown

Privacy Policy
55
Transparency
40
Refund Policy
60
Terms Clarity
45
Security History
40

What This Means For You

NordVPN is one of the most popular VPNs, but popularity doesn't equal best terms. The 2018 breach and marketing practices are concerns, though their Panama jurisdiction does offer some protection.

Consider: If you've seen NordVPN recommended everywhere, remember that many reviews are paid affiliate content.

Tip: Watch out for multi-year plan renewals at higher prices. Set a reminder before your plan renews to evaluate alternatives.