NordVPN Data Breach Exposed: What You Need to Know

“Has NordVPN ever experienced a security breach?” It is a question that has been on many people’s minds and as experts who have been following NordVPN’s journey closely, we are here to give you the straight answer.

Yes, NordVPN did face a security incident back in 2018, which was widely discussed as a NordVPN data breach. But hold on, before you start looking for a new VPN, let us dive into what actually happened and more importantly, what NordVPN did about it. Trust us; their response was pretty impressive.

You see, when it comes to online security, it’s not just about preventing breaches. It’s also about how a company handles challenges like a security breach or NordVPN issues when they do happen.

We are here to unpack the details of NordVPN’s security incident, often referred to as a NordVPN data leak and take you on a journey through the comprehensive steps they took to bounce back stronger than ever.

Let us get started then.

What Happened to NordVPN in 2018?

NordVPN had a security incident in March 2018 that was reported to the public in October 2019. This NordVPN data breach involved a third-party data centre gaining access to a server in Finland, from where login info had been taken.

At the time, NordVPN was unaware that its data centre provider had left an insecure remote management system in place for so long.

While the issue was eventually patched, the incident highlighted vulnerabilities in third-party partnerships and was widely discussed as a NordVPN security breach and NordVPN leaks.

Key Points About the Breach

The insights and takeaways about data breach are as follows:

Limited Impact

NordVPN breach is unique in that it only hit a single server and no user activity logs, usernames or passwords were compromised.

One of its best features is a zero-logs policy, which tells you that the server will never have any user data stolen.

No Compromised Encryption

NordVPN said the intruder did not access its encryption keys or offer its secure servers. The VPN tunnel encryption remained unbroken and no plaintext data was encrypted or exposed.

Response and Remediation

Once the Nord VPN breach came to light, they ended their agreement with this data centre and conducted a system-wide security audit followed by further corrective steps.

This includes performing a full security audit, establishing a bug bounty program and moving to diskless RAM-only servers for greater levels of security. Learn more about their updated practices in our NordVPN privacy policy guide.

NordVPN did have a security event, but it had no impact on end-user privacy and was an isolated incident.

Since then, the company has made large strides in addressing NordVPN problems, enhancing its infrastructure and ensuring that a NordVPN data breach of this scale never happens again.

For stronger privacy and upgraded security, click below to get started with NordVPN.

What was the Response to the NordVPN Data Breach?

They acted quickly and dealt completely with the NordVPN security breach by making changes to its protocols.

Here is how NordVPN responded:

Terminated Relationship with the Data Center

NordVPN said that once it learned about the breach, it severed its contract with the third-party data centre provider from which the server was leased.

NordVPN says that a remote management system was left on the server by the data centre provider, leading to the breach.

Extensive Security Audit

After the NordVPN data breach, they conducted an extensive review of its internal infrastructure. They also investigated all of its servers to determine that no other systems were exposed to the same security hole.

Transition to Diskless (RAM-only) Servers

NordVPN started to move all servers in the network into RAM-only servers as it has no possibility of writing any data down.

This contains a boot disk wipe procedure to make sure that no data can be stored on the server after it is rebooted, thus further increasing security.

Bug Bounty Program

They beefed up the security by starting a NordVPN bug bounty program, where white hat hackers are encouraged to find and report unknown vulnerabilities.

This strategy makes sure that NordVPN is always one step ahead of any threats that may arise.

Independent Security Audits

NordVPN has subsequently been through independent third-party security audits to make sure that its security processes were up to scratch. Part of their compliance includes audits which show ethical standards and transparency as a base.

Improved Infrastructure Security

Alongside shifting to RAM-based servers, NordVPN has also rolled out new security measures and intensified the scrutiny of its server network.

These enhancements were important in addressing vulnerabilities highlighted during the NordVPN data leak. They had also improved their data centre qualification processes as well, along with the partners.

Increased Transparency

NordVPN was forthright about the breach once it came to light, disclosing what happened, how they dealt with it and their efforts at preventing another one from happening again.

Their direct communication regarding the NordVPN scandal reassured users about the safety of their privacy and user data.

Improved Vendor Management

After NordVPN data leaked, it adopted a stricter policy for choosing and managing its third-party data centres.

But in reality they are now retaining much control directly over their infrastructure and have seriously decreased dependence on third-party service providers which means better managing of servers.

For a deeper understanding of their updated approach to data handling, refer to our NordVPN commitment to privacy and data protection guide.

Partnership with Cybersecurity Firms

NordVPN regularly partners with top independent cybersecurity firms to conduct audits on its no-log policy, network and infrastructure.

By opening their technologies and sharing them with other security experts, they invite competition among cybersecurity companies that can provide customers around the world with efforts to combat new threats and be better than everyone else.

Deployment of Dedicated Hardware Security Modules

NordVPN has added hardware security modules (HSMs) to securely store their encryption keys within the infrastructure.

HSMs are highly secure dedicated devices to create, store and manage cryptographic keys securely. HSMs allow only authorized users to use confidential data in an organization.

Is NordVPN Good? How does it ensure the Security of Its Servers?

NordVPN uses some very strong methods to secure its servers and this gives users an excellent standard of protection.

Now, we will explain a high-level overview of what NordVPN does in order to protect its server infrastructure:

RAM-Only (Diskless) Servers

NordVPN now runs its entire server network on RAM-only servers. With no traditional hard drives, these servers have their data wiped clean every time they are rebooted.

This means that no data is left or stored on the server, even in case of another NordVPN breach.

For more information on how this VPN provider ensures secure infrastructure, visit our NordVPN server security guide.

Colocated Servers

NordVPN is rolling out colocated servers and they own the server hardware and have complete control over it, which places them even further apart from third-party data centers.

The servers reside in facilities NordVPN manages, which should translate to greater physical security.

Encrypted Server Configuration

Any server configurations and communication are done in an encrypted manner, so the data is never transferred over the network insecurely.

This ensures end-to-end road security on all the servers and addresses risks highlighted during incidents like the NordVPN data leak. This encryption stops unauthorized access to server settings or data.

No-Logs Policy

NordVPN follows a very strict no-logs policy, which means none of your activity data is stored on any server. This way, even if a server was compromised, no personally identifiable information or activity logs could be retrieved to log user privacy.

Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)

NordVPN protects network services by using the most powerful Intrusion Prevention and Detection Systems on its servers.

Real-time server traffic analysis systems monitor movements on your website and respond to malicious or potentially harmful activities before you are harmed.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for Server Access

NordVPN servers are not unguarded; the door is always closed and multi-factor authentication must be passed for access.

This ensures that only authorized people can control the servers, addressing concerns brought into focus by the NordVPN breach.

Physical Security Measures

NordVPN takes charge of securing third-party data centre servers by requiring each to comply with very strict physical security laws such as 24/7 monitoring, biometric access and even air-gapped networks.

Private DNS Servers

NordVPN has its own private DNS servers and does not rely on third-party providers.

This ensures that your internet requests are handled securely, reducing the chances of vulnerabilities being exposed in situations like the NordVPN data breach and leaving proper DNS queries protected from revealing customer location or particular server data.

To keep your DNS queries private and secure, click below to start using NordVPN’s private DNS servers.

Physical Security at NordVPN Data Centers

NordVPN has a robust physical security policy in its data centres, designed to help protect against unauthorized and unlawful access or tampering, as well as environmental issues like fire.

A summary of the physical security at NordVPN data centres:

Strict Access Control

The servers of NordVPN are under tight lock and key. The data centers are secured by biometric verification, key card access and physical security only allowing individuals authorized to enter.

It makes sure that only people who are carefully vetted and trusted can actually touch the servers in real life.

24/7 Surveillance

24/7 surveillance is performed on all data centres that house NordVPN servers. Entrances, server rooms and common areas are monitored by high-definition security cameras.

The video is constantly monitored and recorded, so you have live security surveillance as well as digital forensic evidence.

On-Site Security Personnel

24-hour on-site security staff: These guards cover the grounds, respond to NordVPN leaks in security around a site and prevent unauthorized personnel from entering an institution.

Biometric and Key Card Access

Areas of the data centres like server rooms that contain sensitive information are restricted to those with a need-to-know and controlled by biometric turnstiles utilizing fingerprint, retinal scan identification cards and security guards.

This two-pronged strategy for enforcement increases the difficulty of unauthorized access, making it even less likely to occur.

Secure Facility Design

The physical structure of the DCs incorporates numerous layers of security such as fortified walls, secure doors and reduced entry points.

These places are often in pretty safe locations geographically, free from natural disasters or external risks.

Redundant Power and Cooling Systems

Redundant power supplies, like those in a backup generator and state-of-the-art cooling systems make sure that while at rest or streaming whatever speed games you stream you won’t have to deal with downtime due to loss of power.

So that even in the case of infrastructure downtimes, It should be up and running continuously.

Fire Suppression Systems

The servers have advanced fire detection and suppression protections in place to prevent server damage by fire.

These are usually gas-based systems that suppress the fire without damaging any electronic equipment.

Regular Security Audits

NordVPN also has its data centres regularly audited for adherence to physical security standards and best practices.

Such audits are performed by third-party independent auditors and internal security teams to find out any potential exposure points so that they can be patched.

Controlled Equipment Disposal

They strictly follow the protocols associated with data wiping and physical destruction when servers or any other equipment are decommissioned, leaving no space for recovering data.

Details of these practices can be found in our NordVPN security features overview.

Colocated and Owned Data Centers

NordVPN has also been investing in co-locating servers on third-party premises and rolling out its own infrastructure at strategically chosen watershed venues.

At the same time, NordVPN’s control over physical security and operations has increased, making its servers even more secure.

How often does NordVPN update its Security Protocols?

NordVPN regularly updates its security protocols to make sure that you receive top-class privacy and protection for yourself.

It does not publicly define the regularity of these updates but indicates that it publishes security update rounds to address well-known flaws and, in some cases, for fast fixes concerning zero-days.

This is how NordVPN updates its security protocols:

Continuous Monitoring and Patch Management

NordVPN has a strict policy regarding the security of its infrastructure and software. This leads to NordVPN effectively pushing out patches or updates to address a security vulnerability if one is found.

That proactive strategy keeps customers secure against identified risks and all new data threats.

Protocol Updates and Upgrades

NordVPN keeps a close eye on the VPN protocols that it supports, such as NordLynx protocol in 2020, which is a protocol based on the WireGuard technology that will further boost both speed and security.

This protocol was naturally developed to provide better performance but with high encryption standards.

Routine Security Audits

Regular independent security audits are also run and the results of these may open new possibilities for strengthening or updating NordVPN’s protocols.

These audits are there to make sure that the protocols of NordVPN stay both strong and current with new practices in cybersecurity.

Implementation of New Technologies

NordVPN is very active in researching and integrating new security technologies as they emerge. For instance, the move to RAM-only servers and the harnessing of HSMs were both big improvements in terms of server security.

Such updates are implemented on the basis of technological developments and security requirements.

Response to Industry Standards and Threat Landscape

NordVPN practices up-to-date industry standards and adjusts its protocols to be the best possible. It has reached the top of these benchmarks.

Also, NordVPN modifies its protocols as the threat landscape evolves to repel new cyber threats or vulnerabilities.

NordVPN refreshes its security protocols continuously, a process that accounts for routine maintenance as well as newly arising threats.

In this way, NordVPN uses regular audits and any advancements in the industry to ensure their protocols are sturdy as can be through proactive security strategies by offering you a top-notch protection level.

Is NordVPN Still Hacked, and Can it Get Breached Again?

The NordVPN data breach from 2018 was quickly addressed and since then, the company has significantly upgraded its security infrastructure.

The affected server was immediately taken offline and NordVPN terminated its contract with the data center responsible.

There have been no reports of further NordVPN scandals or NordVPN data loss since then.

Can It Get Breached Again?

While no system is entirely immune to threats, NordVPN has implemented several industry-leading security measures to prevent future breaches.

These include RAM-only servers, independent security audits and a NordVPN bug bounty program.

Although the possibility of a breach can never be entirely ruled out for any company, NordVPN’s proactive approach and comprehensive security strategies make a future Nord VPN data leak or NordVPN data breach highly unlikely.

NordVPN remains committed to transparency and continuous improvements, ensuring that its users can trust that their data is well-protected at all times.

For those wondering, is NordVPN still hacked today? The answer lies in our comprehensive guide.

To see how NordVPN protects your data today, click below and explore their latest security features.

NordVPN Data Breach: FAQs

The Bottom Line

In our analysis of the NordVPN security breach, we have covered a lot of ground. NordVPN did have a security incident in 2018, but it was minimal and didn’t put any user data at risk due to their no-logs policy.

More importantly, NordVPN used this incident as an opportunity to implement significant improvements to its security infrastructure.

They transitioned to RAM-only servers, conducted multiple independent audits, launched a NordVPN bug bounty program and partnered with top cybersecurity firms to enhance protection. The best part?

They did it all transparently, keeping their users informed every step of the way, ensuring trust despite the initial NordVPN data breach concerns.

If you’re looking for a VPN that prioritizes security at the highest level, NordVPN fulfils this requirement exceptionally. With state-of-the-art features and an unwavering commitment to user privacy, it eliminates the risk of NordVPN issues or NordVPN data leaks.

You can safely explore, stream and download with peace of mind, knowing NordVPN has your back.