US Falls to Fourth Place in Global Cybersecurity Rankings
Global Cybersecurity Assessment Reveals Surprising Results
New research from NordVPN shows the United States has dropped to fourth place globally in cybersecurity awareness. The annual National Privacy Test evaluated responses from 30,792 participants across 186 countries. This comprehensive study measures public understanding of online threats and data protection practices.
American Strengths and Critical Weaknesses
American participants demonstrated strong performance in several key areas. Ninety-six percent successfully identified suspicious streaming service offers and created strong passwords. Additionally, ninety-four percent understood malware infection methods and appropriate app permissions.
However, significant knowledge gaps emerged regarding emerging technologies. Only five percent of Americans recognized privacy concerns when using AI tools for work. Understanding of internet service provider data collection, password storage, and home network security also ranked alarmingly low.
Global Leadership and Ranking
Lithuania claimed the top position with a score of 62 out of 100 points. Singapore and India followed closely, tying for second place with 61 points. Poland and Finland shared third position with scores of 60 points. The United States now ranks fourth globally in cybersecurity awareness.
Expert Analysis of Findings
Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer at NordVPN, commented on the evolving threat landscape. “AI has increased online risks, but fundamental security practices remain unchanged. People improve at recognizing scams, yet many still neglect updates and password hygiene. Criminals exploit these exact vulnerabilities.”
American User Classification
The study categorized participants based on their cybersecurity knowledge. Only one percent of Americans qualified as “Cyber Wanderers” with minimal understanding. The majority (68%) ranked as “Cyber Adventurers” – knowledgeable but needing improvement. Thirteen percent achieved “Cyber Star” status, slightly above the global average.
Year-Over-Year Progress and Regression
American participants showed improvement in several areas during 2025. Awareness of online privacy tools increased seven points to thirty-seven percent. Recognition of AI-powered scams grew five points to seventy-six percent. However, understanding of software update benefits declined three points to fifty percent.
Essential Security Recommendations
NordVPN’s CTO provided practical steps for enhancing online safety:
- Create unique, strong passwords for each account and use password managers
- Enable multi-factor authentication for additional verification layers
- Regularly update software, operating systems, and applications
- Use VPN services to encrypt internet connections
- Review and adjust privacy settings across platforms regularly
- Continuously educate yourself about evolving cybersecurity threats
Industry Perspective on Cybersecurity Education
From my analysis of cybersecurity trends, these findings highlight critical gaps in public digital literacy. The extremely low awareness of AI privacy implications (5%) is particularly concerning given rapid workplace AI adoption. The improvement in recognizing AI-powered scams suggests growing awareness of surface-level threats, while understanding of fundamental protection mechanisms declines.
This disconnect indicates that educational efforts must evolve beyond basic scam recognition to address complex privacy implications of emerging technologies. The decline in understanding software update importance represents a worrying regression in fundamental cybersecurity hygiene.
Research Methodology
The National Privacy Test operates as an open-access survey available globally. Participants answer twenty-two questions evaluating online privacy skills and knowledge. The 2025 data analysis includes responses collected through July 31, 2025, with ongoing participation potentially affecting final results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries lead in cybersecurity knowledge?
Lithuania ranks first globally, followed by Singapore and India tied for second, then Poland and Finland tied for third.
What percentage of Americans understand AI privacy risks?
Only five percent of American participants recognized privacy issues when using AI for work purposes.
How has American cybersecurity knowledge changed?
Awareness of privacy tools and AI scams improved, but understanding of software update importance declined.
What are the most common American cybersecurity strengths?
Ninety-six percent identify suspicious streaming offers and create strong passwords effectively.
How many Americans qualify as cybersecurity experts?
Thirteen percent achieve “Cyber Star” status, slightly above the global average of ten percent.
About NordVPN
NordVPN serves as a leading global VPN provider chosen by millions worldwide. The service offers advanced privacy features including dedicated IP addresses, Double VPN protection, and Onion Over VPN servers. Threat Protection Pro blocks malicious websites, trackers, and advertisements while scanning downloads for malware. NordVPN operates as part of Nord Security, covering 165 locations across 118 countries.
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