Nord Security Competitive Market Analysis 2025

Executive Summary

Nord Security, founded in 2012 and headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is a leading cybersecurity and data privacy company best known for NordVPN, a top-tier VPN service, and a suite of tools including NordPass (password manager), NordLocker (encrypted storage), NordProtect (identity protection), NordLayer (business VPN), NordStellar (threat exposure management), and Saily (eSIM service). With a $3B valuation after raising $200M and a user base of over 15 million, Nord Security dominates the VPN market and is expanding its data privacy offerings, including data removal via partnerships. It faces competition from Surfshark, ExpressVPN, and Aura but leverages its robust encryption, no-logs policy, and innovative features to maintain a strong market position. This analysis provides a detailed corporate dossier, competitive landscape, SWOT, market trends, and strategic recommendations to strengthen Nord Security’s dominance in North America and the EU.

1. Company Overview

• Name: Nord Security
• Date Founded: 2012
• Headquarters: Roeskestraat 115, 1076 EE Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Industry: Cybersecurity, Data Privacy, Personal Data Removal
• Business Model: Subscription-based cybersecurity and privacy services
• Parent Company: None (operates under a holding company with Surfshark B.V. post-2022 merger)
• Operating Status: Active
• Summary: Nord Security is a global leader in cybersecurity, offering NordVPN, NordPass, NordLocker, NordProtect, NordLayer, NordStellar, and Saily. With over 15 million users and a $3B valuation after raising $200M, it serves consumers and businesses in North America, Europe, and beyond, emphasizing advanced encryption, no-logs policies, and innovative privacy tools like data removal partnerships.

2. Founders and Officers

• Founders: Tom Okman, Eimantas Sabaliauskas
• Key Officers:
• Tom Okman (Co-CEO): Drives go-to-market strategy and vision.
• Eimantas Sabaliauskas (Co-CEO): Focuses on technical innovation.
• Laurynas Zabulis (CFO): Oversees financial strategy, joined post-Surfshark merger.
• Vykintas Maknickas (Chief Product Officer): Manages product portfolio.
• Key Insights: Okman and Sabaliauskas’ complementary skills (market and technical expertise) have driven Nord Security to unicorn status, but reliance on a small leadership team may challenge scalability.

3. Executive Leadership & Governance

• Executive Team:
• Co-CEO: Tom Okman
• Co-CEO: Eimantas Sabaliauskas
• CFO: Laurynas Zabulis
• Chief Product Officer: Vykintas Maknickas
• Governance: Operates under a holding company with Surfshark B.V., adhering to GDPR and a no-logs policy audited five times by Deloitte (most recently 2025). SOC 2 Type II certification and transparency reports bolster trust, though Panama’s jurisdiction raises minor concerns for some privacy advocates.

4. Corporate Structure & Ownership

• Structure: Privately held, merged with Surfshark B.V. in 2022 under a holding company, maintaining independent operations. Employs ~2,000 across offices in Amsterdam, Vilnius, Kaunas, Warsaw, and Berlin.
• Ownership: Raised $200M ($100M in 2022, $100M in 2023) from investors including Warburg Pincus, Novator, Burda Principal Investments, General Catalyst, and Matt Mullenweg, valuing the company at $3B.

5. Investors and Partnerships

• Investors: Warburg Pincus, Novator, Burda Principal Investments, General Catalyst, Matt Mullenweg; total funding $200M.
• Partnerships: Collaborates with NetBlocks for internet shutdown reporting, Internet Society for digital freedom, and VPN Trust Initiative for industry standards. Partners with data brokers for opt-out processes and supports Global Privacy Control (GPC). Acquired IronWall (2024) for threat management enhancements.

6. Operations and Business Model

• Service Description: Nord Security offers a suite of cybersecurity tools: NordVPN (VPN with 6,500+ servers), NordPass (password manager), NordLocker (encrypted storage), NordProtect (identity protection), NordLayer (business VPN), NordStellar (threat exposure management), and Saily (eSIM). Data removal is facilitated through partnerships, scanning 270+ brokers.
• Pricing:
• NordVPN Standard: $12.99/month, $4.99/month (1-year, ~$59.88), $3.99/month (2-year, ~$95.76)
• NordVPN Plus: $13.99/month, $5.99/month (1-year, ~$71.88), $4.99/month (2-year, ~$119.76), includes NordPass
• NordVPN Ultimate: $15.99/month, $7.49/month (1-year, ~$89.88), $5.99/month (2-year, ~$143.76), adds NordLocker, NordProtect
• NordLayer: Custom pricing for businesses
• Saily: $3–$10/month, depending on data plan
• Effectiveness: NordVPN offers fast speeds (2–10% loss), unblocks streaming platforms, and maintains a no-logs policy. NordProtect scans 270+ brokers but lacks verification screenshots. NordStellar excels in dark web monitoring but omits attack path analysis.
• Customer Feedback: Praised for speed, security, and affordability (4.7/5 by PCMag); criticized for complex pricing tiers and NordProtect’s U.S.-only availability.

7. Business Offerings

• Services:
• NordVPN: High-speed VPN with 6,500+ servers in 111 countries, AES-256/ChaCha20 encryption, NordLynx protocol, post-quantum encryption (2025).
• NordPass: Password manager with zero-knowledge encryption, Data Breach Scanner, Email Masking.
• NordLocker: End-to-end encrypted cloud storage for file sharing and backup.
• NordProtect: U.S.-only identity protection with dark web monitoring, $1M insurance, cyber extortion coverage.
• NordLayer: Business VPN with ZTNA and endpoint security.
• NordStellar: Threat exposure management with dark web and data breach monitoring.
• Saily: eSIM service for travelers in 200+ countries.
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Comprehensive cybersecurity suite with market-leading encryption, no-logs policy, and diverse tools for consumers and businesses.
• Pricing & Deals: Up to 68% off on long-term plans; 30-day money-back guarantee; free trials for NordPass and Saily.

8. Technologies Used

• Platforms: Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, routers, smart TVs.
• Servers: 6,500+ RAM-only servers in 111 countries, 50% using renewable energy.
• Automation Tools: AI-driven data breach detection (NordProtect/NordStellar), automated opt-outs for data removal.
• Tech Stack: AES-256-GCM, ChaCha20, NordLynx (WireGuard-based), post-quantum encryption, 2048-bit RSA keys, SOC 2 Type II certified.
• Dashboard Interface: User-friendly, showing VPN server status, data breach alerts, and removal progress.
• Data-Sensitivity Framework: GDPR-compliant, no-logs policy audited by Deloitte, minimal data collection (email, payment info); data removal shares contact info with brokers.
• Integrations: NetBlocks, data broker APIs, GPC, NordLynx for post-quantum encryption.

9. Recent Results & Performance

• Growth: 15% user base increase in 2024, reaching 15M+ users; ranked 47th on Financial Times’ Europe’s Fastest Growing Companies (2024).
• Performance: NordVPN is the fastest VPN (Cybernews, 2025), with 2–10% speed loss. NordProtect removes data from 270+ brokers but lacks verification. NordStellar excels in dark web monitoring but misses attack path analysis.
• Achievements: Launched NordProtect, Saily, and NordStellar (2024); acquired IronWall (2024); Deloitte audit (2025); PCMag Editors’ Choice (2021–2025).

10. Target Market Demographics

• Primary Demographic: Adults aged 18–55, tech-savvy, privacy-conscious.
• Income Level: Lower to upper-middle class ($30,000–$150,000/year).
• Tech Proficiency: Moderate to high; user-friendly apps suit beginners.
• Family Households: NordVPN’s 10 simultaneous connections and NordProtect’s family plans appeal to households.
• Geographic Focus: North America (U.S., Canada, 50% of revenue), EU (UK, Germany, France), Australia, Japan.
• Behavioral Traits: Concerned about data breaches, tracking, and geo-restrictions; values speed, security, and affordability.

11. Marketing Channels

• Platforms:
• Social Media: Active on X (@NordVPN), YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, promoting privacy tips and discounts.
• Content Marketing: Blogs, Data Breach Map, Digital Quality of Life Index, and cybersecurity reports.
• Direct Marketing: SEO, email campaigns, affiliate partnerships, influencer collaborations.
• Methods: Leverages Deloitte audits, PCMag awards, and 30%–68% discounts; supports NGOs like Internet Society for advocacy.

12. Market Position

Nord Security holds a leading position (~25–30% market share in VPN, ~15–20% in data removal via partnerships) due to NordVPN’s speed and NordProtect’s identity protection. It surpasses Surfshark in server count but trails Privacy Bee in data broker coverage. Its diverse portfolio strengthens its competitive edge.

13. Competitive Analysis

Competitor	Market Share (Est.)	Revenue (Est.)	Strengths	Weaknesses
Nord Security	~25–30%	$100–$200M	Fastest VPN, diverse portfolio	Complex pricing, U.S.-only NordProtect
Surfshark	~20–25%	$20–$40M	Unlimited connections, low cost	Fewer servers, Nine Eyes jurisdiction
ExpressVPN	~15–20%	$50–$100M	Frequent audits, privacy haven	High cost, limited features
Abine (DeleteMe)	~15–20%	$15–$21.3M	Brand reputation, human-driven removals	Limited automated coverage (181), high cost
Aura	~10–15%	$50–$100M	All-in-one suite, family plans	Limited broker coverage (~95)
Kanary	~5–10%	$10–$20M	Free tier, anti-doxxing focus	Slow removals, iOS-only premium
Optery	~5–10%	$10–$20M	High coverage (600+), free tier	U.S.-only, slow custom removals
Privacy Bee	~10–15%	$15–$30M	Most brokers (900+), trust settings	High cost, complex setup
PrivacyHawk	~5%	$5–$10M	Mobile-first, free Privacy Score	Limited coverage (100+), app lag
HelloPrivacy	~5%	$5–$10M	Affordable, Nord backing	Limited coverage (200+), no screenshots

Note: Market share and revenue estimates are based on industry reports and web data.

14. Market Analysis and TAM

• Definition: Total Addressable Market (TAM) is the revenue opportunity for cybersecurity and data removal services in North America and the EU.
• Market Context: Global cybersecurity market valued at $193.73B in 2024, projected to reach $562.72B by 2032 (CAGR 14.3%). Data privacy software market at $3.84B in 2024, projected to $45.13B by 2032 (CAGR 35.5%). North America (40%), EU (25%).
• TAM Estimation:
• Top-Down: Global cybersecurity market with privacy services as a subset (~5–10%). North America/EU TAM: ~$12–$15B.
• Bottom-Up: ~500M adults in North America/EU, with 10–15% adoption at $4–$30/month. TAM: ~$9–$12B.
• Value-Theory: 5.5B breached accounts in 2024 drive demand. TAM: ~$10–$12B.
• Conclusion: North America/EU TAM is ~$10–$12B, with Nord Security capturing ~3–4%.
• Data Broker Lobbying: $56.1M spent in 2022 to resist privacy laws, boosting demand for removal services.

15. Industry Reports and Market Context

• Market Size: Cybersecurity market at $193.73B (2024), data privacy at $3.84B, with CAGRs of 14.3% and 35.5%, respectively.
• Cybercrime Trends: 5.5B accounts breached in 2024, 179 deepfake incidents in Q1 2025 (19% rise), 590 ransomware attacks in January 2025.
• Data Broker Lobbying: GDPR, CCPA, and proposed U.S. Delete Act (2023) increase demand for opt-out services.

16. Financial Analysis

• Revenue: Estimated $100–$200M in 2025, driven by NordVPN and NordProtect.
• Growth Rate: ~15–20% YoY, above cybersecurity CAGR but below data privacy CAGR.
• Profitability: Profitable since bootstrapping, with positive EBITDA post-2022 funding.
• Funding: $200M raised ($100M in 2022, $100M in 2023) at a $3B valuation.

17. Strategic Positioning and MOAT

• Positioning: Premium cybersecurity provider with fast VPN, identity protection, and diverse tools for consumers and businesses.
• MOAT: Fastest VPN (Cybernews, 2025), five Deloitte audits, 6,500+ servers, and diverse portfolio. Weakened by U.S.-only NordProtect and complex pricing.

18. Growth Strategy & Expansion

• Current Strategy: Expand NordProtect globally, enhance NordStellar with attack path analysis, and acquire startups like IronWall (2024).
• Expansion Plans: Launch NordProtect in EU/Asia, increase data removal coverage to 400+ brokers, and target SMEs with NordLayer.
• Challenges: Competition from Surfshark’s unlimited connections, Privacy Bee’s broader coverage, and economic tech budget cuts (20% average).

19. Threat & Risk Assessment

• Product Strategy:
• Core Offering: NordVPN, NordProtect (270+ brokers), NordPass, NordLocker, NordLayer, NordStellar, Saily.
• Pricing: Competitive but complex tier structure.
• Geographic Reach: Strong in North America/EU, limited in Asia.
• Technology: AES-256, NordLynx, post-quantum encryption; lacks NordProtect verification.
• Integration: Strong with NetBlocks, GPC, and data broker APIs.
• Positioning:
• Market Position: Leader in VPN, mid-tier in data removal.
• Target Audience: Privacy-conscious consumers and businesses.
• Brand Messaging: Security, speed, trust.
• Competitive Landscape: Crowded with Surfshark’s affordability and Privacy Bee’s coverage.
• Vulnerabilities: U.S.-only NordProtect, complex pricing, and Panama jurisdiction concerns.

20. Predictions - Company’s Next 5 Moves

1. Global NordProtect Launch: Expand to EU and Asia by mid-2026. 2. Broader Data Removal: Increase broker coverage to 400+ for NordProtect. 3. NordStellar Enhancements: Add attack path analysis to compete with CrowdStrike. 4. Acquisitions: Acquire additional privacy startups to bolster portfolio. 5. AI Integration: Enhance NordPass and NordProtect with AI-driven threat detection.

21. Opportunities and Opportunity Matrix

Opportunity	Description	Impact (1–5)	Feasibility (1–5)
Global NordProtect Launch	Expand to EU and Asia	5	3
Broader Data Removal	Increase to 400+ brokers	4	4
NordStellar Enhancements	Add attack path analysis	3	4
Acquisitions	Acquire privacy startups	4	3
AI Integration	Enhance tools with AI threat detection	3	4

22. Strategic Recommendations

1. Expand NordProtect Globally: Launch in EU and Asia by 2026, leveraging GDPR compliance. 2. Increase Data Removal Coverage: Target 400+ brokers to compete with Privacy Bee and Optery. 3. Simplify Pricing: Streamline NordVPN tiers to improve user experience and transparency. 4. Enhance NordStellar: Add attack path analysis to strengthen enterprise offerings. 5. Pursue Strategic Acquisitions: Acquire privacy-focused startups to expand portfolio and market share.

23. Valuation Assessment

• Estimated Valuation: ~$3B (2023), likely $3.5–$4B in 2025 based on revenue multiples (15–20x) for cybersecurity firms with $100–$200M revenue.
• Factors: Fastest VPN, diverse portfolio, and 15M+ users drive value; U.S.-only NordProtect and pricing complexity limit upside.

24. Identification of Key Competitors

• Surfshark, ExpressVPN, Abine (DeleteMe), Aura, Kanary, Optery, Privacy Bee, PrivacyHawk, HelloPrivacy, OneRep.

25. Competitors’ SWOT Analysis

Competitor	Strengths	Weaknesses	Opportunities	Threats
Nord Security	Fastest VPN, diverse portfolio	Complex pricing, U.S.-only NordProtect	Global expansion, AI integration	Competition, regulatory scrutiny
Surfshark	Unlimited connections, low cost	Fewer servers, Nine Eyes jurisdiction	Asia expansion, broader coverage	Privacy concerns, competition
ExpressVPN	Frequent audits, privacy haven	High cost, limited features	New features, market expansion	Price competition
Abine (DeleteMe)	Brand reputation, human-driven removals	Limited automated coverage (181), high cost	Broader coverage, EU expansion	Privacy concerns, competition
Aura	All-in-one suite, family plans	Limited broker coverage (~95)	EU expansion, AI enhancements	Intense competition, regulatory shifts
Kanary	Free tier, anti-doxxing focus	Slow removals, iOS-only premium	Android support, EU expansion	Broader-coverage competitors
Optery	High coverage (600+), free tier	U.S.-only, slow custom removals	EU expansion, mobile apps	Market saturation
Privacy Bee	Most brokers (900+), trust settings	High cost, complex setup	Global expansion	Regulatory scrutiny
PrivacyHawk	Mobile-first, free Privacy Score	Limited coverage (100+), app lag	EU expansion, broader coverage	Broader-coverage competitors
HelloPrivacy	Affordable, Nord backing	Limited coverage (200+), no screenshots	EU expansion, verification	Broader-coverage competitors

26. Market Trends, Customer Preferences, and Emerging Technologies

• Trends:
• 5.5B accounts breached in 2024, up from 730M in 2023, driving demand for privacy tools.
• GDPR, CCPA, and U.S. Delete Act (2023) increase opt-out service adoption.
• Rising AI-driven phishing and deepfake incidents (179 in Q1 2025) fuel cybersecurity needs.
• Customer Preferences:
• Value fast, secure VPNs with no-logs policies and affordable pricing.
• Prefer comprehensive suites with data removal and identity protection.
• Seek user-friendly apps and transparent audits.
• Emerging Technologies:
• Post-quantum encryption to counter future threats.
• AI for threat detection and data removal verification.
• Zero-trust network access (ZTNA) for enterprise security.

27. Quantitative Metrics

• Market Share: Nord Security (25–30%), Surfshark (20–25%), ExpressVPN (~15–20%).
• Revenue: Nord Security ($100–$200M), Surfshark ($20–$40M), ExpressVPN ($50–$100M).
• Growth Rates: Industry CAGR ~35.5% (data privacy), 14.3% (cybersecurity); Nord Security ~15–20%.
• Pricing: Nord Security ($3.99–$15.99/month), Surfshark ($1.99–$23.69/month), ExpressVPN ($6.67–$12.95/month).

Note: Visualizations not included due to lack of user request for charts.

28. Reported Problems

• Operational Issues: NordProtect’s U.S.-only availability limits global reach; data removal lacks verification screenshots; complex pricing confuses users.
• Conflicts of Interest: No reported officer conflicts; Surfshark merger may divert resources from NordProtect’s development.
• Customer Complaints: NordProtect misses major brokers (e.g., Whitepages), infrequent audits (5 since 2012 vs. ExpressVPN’s 22), and complex pricing tiers.

Citations

• Cybernews. (2025). NordVPN Review 2025: Still the Best VPN out There? Retrieved from https://cybernews.com
• Cybernews. (2025). Surfshark vs NordVPN: 2025 Tests & Comparison. Retrieved from https://cybernews.com
• Fortune Business Insights. (2024). Cybersecurity Market Size, Share, Analysis | Global Report 2032. Retrieved from https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.comhttps://siliconangle.com/2023/09/28/vpn-provider-nord-security-raises-100m-3b-valuation/))
• Nord Security. (2023). About Us | History and Values. Retrieved from https://nordsecurity.com
• Nord Security. (2024). Digital security and privacy for everyone. Retrieved from https://nordsecurity.com
• SiliconANGLE. (2023). VPN provider Nord Security raises $100M at $3B valuation. Retrieved from https://siliconangle.com
• Sifted. (2024). Cybersecurity unicorn Nord Security on its journey from bootstrapping to IPO readiness. Retrieved from https://sifted.eu
• Security.org. (2024). NordStellar Review 2025 — Is It Right for Your Business? Retrieved from https://www.security.org
• NordProtect Review – Identity Theft Protection Tool for 2025. (2025). Retrieved from https://cybernews.com
• Tom’s Guide. (2025). Nord Security’s 2024 Impact Report shines a light on the company’s carbon footprint. Retrieved from https://www.tomsguide.com
• BusinessResearchInsights. (2025). Virtual Private Network (VPN) Market Size, Trends, Growth, 2033. Retrieved from https://www.businessresearchinsights.com
• X Post by @NordVPN. (2022). Retrieved from https://x.com/NordVPN

Tomas Okman, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Nord Security

Overview

Tomas Okman is a Lithuanian tech entrepreneur, investor, and Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Nord Security, a global cybersecurity company renowned for its VPN service, NordVPN, and privacy-focused solutions like HelloPrivacy. Born in 1987, Okman has built a diverse portfolio through Tesonet, co-founding ventures like Oxylabs, Hostinger, and Surfshark, all recognized among Europe’s fastest-growing companies by The Financial Times. With a net worth estimated at €1.2 billion (2024), he is a prominent figure in cybersecurity, sports (owning BC London Lions and part-owning BC Žalgiris), and philanthropy, notably raising €2 million for Ukraine in 2023. A Forbes Technology Council member, Okman is known for leveraging technology to scale businesses and advocating for digital privacy.

Current Position

• Role: Co-Founder and Co-CEO
• Company: Nord Security
• Key Responsibilities:
• Co-leads strategic vision and growth of Nord Security, overseeing products like NordVPN, NordPass, NordLayer, and HelloPrivacy (a privacy-focused initiative).
• Drives partnerships, including the 2022 merger with Surfshark and investments from Warburg Pincus and Novator, achieving a $3 billion valuation in 2023.
• Promotes innovation in user-friendly cybersecurity tools, aiming for a single app that seamlessly protects users in the background.
• Mentors startups through Tesonet and supports Lithuania’s tech ecosystem.
• Tenure: Co-founded Nord Security in 2017, serving as Co-CEO to present (2025).

Professional Experience

• Nord Security (2017–Present):
• Co-founded Nord Security with Eimantas Sabaliauskas, growing it into a cybersecurity leader with 15 million users and 7,300 servers across 118 countries.
• Launched NordVPN (2012) and expanded the portfolio to include NordPass, NordLayer, and NordStellar, focusing on consumer and business privacy solutions.
• Led Nord Security to unicorn status ($1.6 billion in 2022, $3 billion in 2023) with $200 million raised, emphasizing transparency via the VPN Trust Initiative (VTI).
• Tesonet (2008–Present):
• Co-founded with Eimantas Sabaliauskas, building a tech accelerator with a portfolio of over 50 ventures, including Oxylabs (web intelligence), Hostinger (web hosting), and Surfshark (cybersecurity).
• Grew Tesonet’s workforce to 4,000 across its ventures, mentoring Lithuanian startups and investing in gaming, adtech, AI, retail, and deep tech.
• Nexos.ai (2024–Present):
• Co-founded an AI orchestration platform with $8 million in funding from Index Ventures, launched in January 2025 to accelerate enterprise AI adoption.
• Šiaulių Bankas (Dates Unspecified–Present):
• Serves on the supervisory board of one of Lithuania’s largest banks, contributing to financial strategy and governance.
• Early Ventures (2008–2012):
• Explored 34 projects with Tesonet, ranging from gaming to web hosting, before focusing on network security and big data solutions.

Background

• Education:
• Master’s in E-Business Management, Mykolas Romeris University.
• Bachelor’s in History, Vilnius University.
• Early Career:
• Co-founded Tesonet in 2008 with Eimantas Sabaliauskas, initially experimenting with diverse tech projects.
• Developed expertise in network security, leading to the creation of NordVPN in 2012 after identifying privacy gaps in the internet ecosystem.
• Contributed to a US patent for reducing TCP packet travel time, enhancing VPN performance.
• Relevant Personal Details:
• Born November 5, 1987, in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he remains based.
• Known for a collaborative leadership style, fostering a family-like culture at Nord Security, with a “zero tolerance for toxicity” policy.
• Passionate about sports, owning BC London Lions (2024) and part-owning EuroLeague’s BC Žalgiris (2022).

Business Associations

• Current:
• Nord Security: Co-Founder and Co-CEO, collaborating with Eimantas Sabaliauskas and Jonas Karklys.
• Tesonet: Co-Founder, overseeing investments in Oxylabs, Hostinger, and Surfshark.
• Nexos.ai: Co-Founder, working with Index Ventures and beta customers.
• Šiaulių Bankas: Supervisory board member.
• BC London Lions and BC Žalgiris: Owner and part-owner, respectively, expanding into sports.
• Venture Capital: Limited Partner in Creandum, Plural, and Moonfire funds, investing in gaming, adtech, AI, and deep tech.
• Past:
• Surfshark: Early investor and incubator via Tesonet, maintaining a “close friends” relationship post-2022 merger.
• Note: No additional current board memberships outside Šiaulių Bankas and Nord Security were identified.

LinkedIn Profile

• URL: Tomas Okman’ LinkedIn Profile
• Note: Publicly accessible, detailing roles at Nord Security, Tesonet, and sports ventures, with over 500 connections. Posts highlight Nord Security’s unicorn status, nexos.ai launch, and BC Žalgiris championships.

Social Media

• Twitter/X:
• No active professional Twitter/X account was identified.
• LinkedIn:
• Activity: Shares updates on Nord Security’s growth, nexos.ai’s launch, and sports achievements (e.g., BC Žalgiris’ 2024/2025 LKL championship). Engages with cybersecurity and startup communities.
• Note: Okman’ social media presence is primarily professional, centered on LinkedIn, with no significant activity on other platforms.

Publications

• Forbes Technology Council Articles:
• “The Ever-Changing Nature of Cybersecurity” (Date Unspecified): Discusses high-stakes uncertainty in cybersecurity and the need for transparency in VPN practices.
• Topics include data handling, user privacy, and the growing attack surface from increased online activity.
• Interviews:
• ZDNet (February 4, 2022): Shared Nord Security’s five-year plan to become a one-stop privacy suite.
• Sifted (February 23, 2025): Discussed Nord Security’s culture, nexos.ai’s rapid development, and Lithuania’s tech ecosystem.
• TechCrunch (January 17, 2025): Outlined nexos.ai’s mission to accelerate enterprise AI adoption.
• Note: No books authored by Okman were identified. His contributions focus on Forbes articles and media interviews.

Professional Organizations

• Forbes Technology Council:
• Member since 2020, contributing articles on cybersecurity and privacy.
• Internet Infrastructure Coalition (i2Coalition):
• Board of Directors member, advocating for internet infrastructure policies. Co-launched the VPN Trust Initiative (VTI) in 2019, establishing best practices for VPN providers.
• Vilnius University Institute of International Relations and Political Science:
• Board of Trustees member, alongside figures like former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė.
• Lithuanian Startup Ecosystem:
• Mentors startups and co-launched an association to support active Lithuanian ventures.

Certifications

• Note: No specific professional certifications were listed in verified sources. Okman’ expertise is derived from his academic degrees and extensive entrepreneurial experience.

Industry

• Primary Industry: Cybersecurity and online privacy, specializing in VPNs and privacy solutions like HelloPrivacy.
• Influence:
• As Co-CEO of Nord Security, Okman drives a leading VPN provider with 15 million users, competing with ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and ProtonVPN.
• Shapes industry standards through VTI and transparency reports, earning recognition from Bloomberg and TechRadar.
• Influences Lithuania’s tech ecosystem, with Nord Security and Tesonet ventures employing 4,000 people.
• Key Trends:
• Privacy as a Service: Pioneers a unified app for seamless cybersecurity, including VPN, password management, and data removal.
• Data Protection Regulation: Supports compliance with GDPR and CCPA, advocating for user privacy rights.
• AI Integration: Launched nexos.ai to address enterprise AI adoption challenges, reflecting trends in AI-driven cybersecurity.
• Global Expansion: Drives Nord Security’s growth in a $153.65 billion cybersecurity market (2022) through mergers and acquisitions.

Concerns

• Business Relations:
• Early ties to Tesonet (pre-2020) raised transparency concerns for NordVPN and Surfshark, addressed by Okman in 2022, clarifying independence.
• The 2022 Nord Security-Surfshark merger raised speculation about operational overlaps, though both companies maintain independence.
• Operations:
• NordVPN’s Panama base (chosen for privacy-friendly laws) and temporary data logging practices have been scrutinized, though mitigated by no-logs audits.
• Rapid development of nexos.ai (30 days from idea to launch) may raise concerns about product maturity, though backed by reputable investors like Index Ventures.
• Ethics:
• No ethical controversies were found. Okman’ philanthropy (e.g., €2 million for Ukraine) and transparency advocacy align with ethical practices.
• Actions/Personal:
• No personal controversies or legal issues were identified.
• Limited public details on early career (pre-2008) may prompt investor due diligence, though his track record mitigates concerns.

Eimantas Sabaliauskas, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Nord Security

Overview

Eimantas Sabaliauskas is a Lithuanian tech entrepreneur, investor, and Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Nord Security, a global cybersecurity company renowned for its VPN service, NordVPN, and privacy-focused solutions like HelloPrivacy. With a background in Computer Science, Sabaliauskas has driven Nord Security to a $3 billion valuation in 2023, serving 15 million users with products like NordPass, NordLayer, and NordStellar. A key figure in Lithuania’s startup ecosystem, he co-founded Tesonet, a tech accelerator, and has invested in over 50 ventures, including Oxylabs and Hostinger. Recognized as a National Patron of Lithuania for his philanthropy, Sabaliauskas is a Forbes Technology Council member and a vocal advocate for internet privacy and security.

Current Position

• Role: Co-Founder and Co-CEO
• Company: Nord Security
• Key Responsibilities:
• Co-leads strategic vision and growth of Nord Security, overseeing products like NordVPN, NordPass, NordLayer, and HelloPrivacy (a privacy-focused initiative).
• Drives innovation in user-friendly cybersecurity tools, aiming for a seamless, all-in-one privacy app.
• Manages partnerships, including the 2022 Surfshark merger and $200 million in funding from Warburg Pincus and Novator.
• Mentors startups through Tesonet, fostering Lithuania’s tech ecosystem.
• Tenure: Co-founded Nord Security in 2017, serving as Co-CEO to present (2025).

Professional Experience

• Nord Security (2017–Present):
• Co-founded with Tomas Okman and Jonas Karklys, launching NordVPN in 2012 and growing it to 15 million users with 7,300 servers across 118 countries.
• Expanded product suite to include NordPass (password manager), NordLayer (business VPN), NordLocker (encrypted storage), and NordStellar (threat exposure management).
• Led Nord Security to unicorn status ($1.6 billion in 2022, $3 billion in 2023), raising $200 million in funding.
• Drove transparency through the VPN Trust Initiative (VTI) and no-logs audits, enhancing trust with users and media like Bloomberg and TechRadar.
• Tesonet (2008–Present):
• Co-founded with Tomas Okman, building a tech accelerator with over 50 ventures, including Oxylabs, Hostinger, and Surfshark, employing 4,000 people.
• Invested in AI, EdTech, SportTech, and digital solutions, with ventures like CAST AI and MISHKAY, recognized at the 2023 Vilnius TechFusion Awards.
• Received the Global Lithuanian Awards (2023) for promoting Lithuanian tech innovation.
• Nexos.ai (2024–Present):
• Co-founded with Tomas Okman, launching an AI orchestration platform with $8 million from Index Ventures to streamline enterprise AI adoption.
• Eneba Games, Sixads, PIXEVIA, Hostinger International (2008–2017, Exact Dates Unspecified):
• Held leadership roles, likely in technical or business development, contributing to growth in gaming, adtech, and web hosting ventures.
• Specific roles not publicly detailed, but experience bolstered his expertise in scaling tech startups.
• ADTARGET.ME (Dates Unspecified):
• Co-Founder, CEO, and Board Member, focusing on online advertising solutions before pivoting to cybersecurity.

Background

• Education:
• Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Vilnius University (2002–2006).
• Early Career:
• Met Tomas Okman in an IRC channel in 1999, leading to the founding of Tesonet in 2008 for a single project, which evolved into a tech accelerator.
• Experimented with over 30 IT projects (apps, websites) before focusing on network security, launching NordVPN in 2012.
• Developed technical expertise in scalable systems and cybersecurity, shaping his role at Nord Security.
• Relevant Personal Details:
• Born in Lithuania, based in Vilnius, aligning with Nord Security’s operations.
• Known for a collaborative, non-toxic leadership style, fostering a family-like culture at Nord Security.
• Named National Patron of Lithuania (2023) with Tomas Okman for raising €2 million for Ukraine.

Business Associations

• Current:
• Nord Security: Co-Founder and Co-CEO, collaborating with Tomas Okman, Jonas Karklys, and executives like Laurynas Zabulis (CFO).
• Tesonet: Co-Founder, overseeing investments in Oxylabs, Hostinger, Surfshark, and others.
• Nexos.ai: Co-Founder, working with Index Ventures to develop AI solutions.
• Šiaulių Bankas: Tesonet shareholder, with Okman on the supervisory board; Sabaliauskas’ role is advisory or investment-focused.
• BC Žalgiris and BC London Lions: Supports Tesonet’s 25% stake in Žalgiris (2022) and ownership of London Lions, focusing on SportTech innovation.
• Past:
• ADTARGET.ME: Co-Founder and CEO.
• Eneba Games, Sixads, PIXEVIA, Hostinger: Leadership roles in early-stage ventures.
• Note: No additional current board memberships outside Tesonet and Nord Security were identified.

LinkedIn Profile

• URL: Eimantas Sabaliauskas’ LinkedIn Profile
• Note: Publicly accessible, detailing roles at Nord Security, Tesonet, and nexos.ai, with over 500 connections. Posts focus on Nord Security’s growth, nexos.ai’s launch, and Lithuanian tech innovation.

Social Media

• Twitter/X:
• No active professional Twitter/X account was identified.
• LinkedIn:
• Activity: Shares updates on Nord Security’s unicorn status, nexos.ai’s $8 million funding, and Tesonet’s contributions to Lithuania’s tech ecosystem. Engages with startup and cybersecurity communities.
• Note: Sabaliauskas’ social media presence is primarily professional, centered on LinkedIn, with no significant activity on other platforms.

Publications

• Interviews:
• Sifted (February 23, 2025): Discussed Nord Security’s IPO readiness, culture, and Lithuania’s economic impact with Tomas Okman.
• Authority Magazine (September 13, 2021): Shared “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became A Founder,” emphasizing trust in people and sustainable growth.
• Note: No authored articles or books were found. Sabaliauskas’ contributions are primarily through interviews and internal leadership rather than public thought leadership.

Professional Organizations

• UnicornsLT:
• Co-founded to support Lithuania’s startup ecosystem, fostering growth for active ventures.
• Note: No memberships in organizations like Forbes Technology Council or i2Coalition were identified, unlike co-founder Tomas Okman. Sabaliauskas’ focus is on startup mentorship and Nord Security.

Certifications

• Note: No specific professional certifications were listed in verified sources. Sabaliauskas’ expertise stems from his Computer Science degree and extensive entrepreneurial experience.

Industry

• Primary Industry: Cybersecurity and online privacy, specializing in VPNs and privacy solutions like HelloPrivacy.
• Influence:
• As Co-CEO of Nord Security, Sabaliauskas drives a leading VPN provider with 15 million users, competing with ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and ProtonVPN.
• Shapes Lithuania’s tech ecosystem through Tesonet, with ventures like Oxylabs and Hostinger listed among Europe’s fastest-growing by The Financial Times.
• Influences industry standards via Nord Security’s VTI membership and no-logs audits, earning trust from Bloomberg and TechRadar.
• Key Trends:
• Privacy as a Service: Oversees a unified cybersecurity app, integrating VPN, password management, and data protection.
• Data Protection Regulation: Ensures compliance with GDPR and CCPA, supporting privacy advocacy.
• AI Integration: Co-founded nexos.ai to address enterprise AI challenges, reflecting AI’s role in cybersecurity.
• Global Expansion: Drives Nord Security’s growth in a $153.65 billion cybersecurity market (2022) through mergers and partnerships.

Concerns

• Business Relations:
• Early Tesonet ties (pre-2020) raised transparency concerns for NordVPN and Surfshark, addressed by Okman in 2022, with no direct impact on Sabaliauskas.
• The 2022 Nord Security-Surfshark merger sparked speculation about operational overlaps, though both operate independently.
• Operations:
• A 2018 NordVPN server breach raised security concerns, mitigated by switching to RAM-only servers and third-party audits, with no lasting impact on Sabaliauskas’ leadership.
• NordVPN’s Panama base and temporary data logging have been scrutinized, though no-logs audits maintain trust.
• Ethics:
• No ethical controversies were found. Sabaliauskas’ philanthropy (€2 million for Ukraine) and privacy focus align with ethical practices.
• Actions/Personal:
• No personal controversies or legal issues were identified.
• Limited public details on pre-2008 career may prompt investor due diligence, though his track record mitigates concerns.

Laurynas Zabulis, Chief Financial Officer of Surfshark/NordSecurity

Overview

Laurynas Zabulis is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Surfshark, a leading global cybersecurity company offering privacy and security solutions, including VPNs, antivirus, data leak detection, and personal data removal through its Incogni service. With a background in financial strategy and operations, Zabulis plays a critical role in managing Surfshark’s financial growth, supporting its $1.6 billion valuation and expansion following a 2022 merger with Nord Security. His expertise ensures fiscal stability for a company with over 12.4 million app downloads and 400+ employees across multiple countries, driving Surfshark’s mission to secure digital lives globally.

Current Position

• Role: Chief Financial Officer
• Company: Surfshark
• Key Responsibilities:
• Oversees financial strategy, budgeting, and forecasting to support Surfshark’s global expansion and product development.
• Manages financial operations for a company with $84 million in revenue (2025), including funding rounds ($200M raised in 2022) and partnerships.
• Ensures compliance with financial regulations across jurisdictions, particularly in the Netherlands (GDPR-compliant headquarters).
• Supports strategic initiatives, such as the Nord Security merger and partnerships with entities like NetBlocks and the Internet Society.
• Tenure: Appointed CFO, serving to present (2025). Exact start date not publicly specified.

Professional Experience

• Surfshark (Dates Unspecified–Present):
• Serves as CFO, managing financial operations for a unicorn company valued at $1.6 billion, with 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.
• Supports Surfshark’s growth through acquisitions, product launches (e.g., Incogni, Antivirus), and partnerships, including the 2022 Nord Security merger.
• Oversees financial aspects of Surfshark’s expansion to 400+ employees across offices in the Netherlands, Lithuania, Poland, and Germany.
• Previous Roles:
• Limited public information is available on Zabulis’ prior roles, as his professional history before Surfshark is not widely documented in verified sources.
• Likely held senior financial leadership positions in technology or related industries, given his current role, possibly focusing on financial planning or operations.
• Note: Lack of detailed historical data may be due to Zabulis’ private profile or limited public disclosure of earlier career details.

Background

• Education:
• No specific educational details are publicly available from verified sources.
• Likely holds a degree in finance, accounting, or business administration (e.g., MBA, CPA), as is typical for CFO roles in technology companies.
• Early Career:
• No public records detail Zabulis’ early career. His expertise suggests experience in financial management, possibly in technology or cybersecurity firms, prior to Surfshark.
• Relevant Personal Details:
• Likely based in Vilnius, Lithuania, or Amsterdam, Netherlands, aligning with Surfshark’s primary offices and remote workforce model.
• No personal details impacting his professional profile were found in verified sources.

Business Associations

• Current:
• Surfshark: CFO, working closely with CEO Vytautas Kaziukonis, CTO Justinas Valentinas, and Head of Incogni Darius Belejevas.
• Nord Security: Supports financial integration post-2022 merger, maintaining independent operations while leveraging shared resources.
• Investors: Manages relationships with investors like Warburg Pincus, Novator Ventures, Burda Principal Investments, General Catalyst, and angel investors from Supercell and Wolt.
• NetBlocks: Supports financial aspects of Surfshark’s 2022 partnership for internet shutdown reporting.
• Past:
• No documented past business associations, board memberships, or partnerships were identified in publicly available sources.
• Note: Zabulis’ professional network appears centered on Surfshark and its ecosystem, with limited public information on other affiliations.

LinkedIn Profile

• URL: Not publicly available.
• Note: No LinkedIn profile for Laurynas Zabulis was identified in verified sources or through a targeted search. This may indicate a private profile or limited online presence.

Social Media

• Twitter/X:
• No active professional Twitter/X account was identified for Laurynas Zabulis.
• LinkedIn:
• As noted, no public LinkedIn profile was found.
• Note: Zabulis maintains a minimal public social media presence, focusing professional engagement within Surfshark’s corporate channels rather than personal accounts.

Publications

• Note: No articles, books, or public statements authored by Laurynas Zabulis were found in verified sources. His contributions are likely internal, focusing on financial strategy rather than public thought leadership.

Professional Organizations

• Note: No memberships in professional organizations, such as Financial Executives International (FEI) or Association for Financial Professionals (AFP), were identified in public records. Zabulis’ focus appears to be on his role at Surfshark.

Certifications

• Note: No specific professional certifications were listed in verified sources. Given his role, Zabulis may hold certifications like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), but no public confirmation exists.

Industry

• Primary Industry: Cybersecurity and online privacy, specializing in VPNs and personal data removal.
• Influence:
• As CFO, Zabulis supports Surfshark’s financial strategy, enabling its position as a top-three global VPN provider with over 12.4 million app downloads and a $1.6 billion valuation.
• Facilitates funding for Incogni’s data removal service and other products, competing with firms like DeleteMe, Optery, and Privacy Bee.
• Contributes to Surfshark’s industry leadership through financial support for initiatives like the VPN Trust Initiative and transparency reports.
• Key Trends:
• Privacy as a Service: Manages financial resources for Surfshark’s suite, including Incogni, Antivirus, and Search, simplifying privacy for non-technical users.
• Data Broker Regulation: Supports compliance with GDPR, CCPA, and PIPEDA, ensuring financial backing for regulatory alignment.
• AI and Privacy: Allocates resources to address AI-driven risks like phishing and deepfakes, aligning with Surfshark’s mission.
• Global Expansion: Oversees financial aspects of Surfshark’s growth in a $153.65 billion cybersecurity market (2022), through mergers and partnerships.

Concerns

• Business Relations:
• No specific concerns identified. Zabulis’ collaboration with Surfshark’s leadership and investors appears positive.
• Early ties to Tesonet (2018–2020) raised transparency questions, addressed by CEO Vytautas Kaziukonis, with no direct impact on Zabulis.
• Operations:
• Incogni’s 75% data broker response rate (2022 study) indicates challenges in ensuring complete data removal, requiring financial support for technical improvements.
• Surfshark’s temporary IP address logging (until 15 minutes post-disconnection) and Netherlands base (Nine Eyes country) may raise privacy concerns, necessitating robust financial oversight for compliance.
• Rising Incogni subscription prices ($89.88/year in 2024) may impact competitiveness against lower-cost alternatives like Optery ($39/year).
• Ethics:
• No ethical controversies were found. Zabulis’ focus on financial strategy aligns with Surfshark’s privacy mission.
• Actions/Personal:
• No personal controversies or legal issues were identified.
• Limited public information on pre-Surfshark career details may prompt investor due diligence, though his current role is well-aligned with Surfshark’s goals.