VPN Leak Test

A VPN leak happens when your device accidentally exposes your real IP address, physical location, or even your internet traffic outside of the encrypted VPN tunnel. This completely defeats the purpose of using a VPN, which is to protect your online identity and privacy.

Why does it matter? Even with a VPN active, various types of leaks can reveal your true identity, location, and Browse habits to third parties like your Internet Service Provider (ISP), government agencies, or malicious attackers. Your privacy depends on your VPN being leak-proof.

IPv6 Leaks

• What is it? IPv6 leaks are very common. Many VPNs handle IPv4 traffic well, but don't properly manage IPv6 connections, allowing them to bypass the VPN entirely.
• How does it happen? Your device might be set up to use IPv6, but your VPN only routes IPv4 traffic. This creates a "leak" where IPv6 requests go straight to your ISP.
• The danger: Websites can detect your real IPv6 address, revealing your actual location, ISP, and potentially even your personal identity.

WebRTC Leaks

• What is it? Web Real-Time Communication (WebRTC) allows direct communication within your web browser. Unfortunately, it can also be exploited to expose your real IP address.
• How does it work? WebRTC uses STUN servers to find your local and public IP addresses for direct connections. Malicious websites can access this information using simple JavaScript.
• The danger: Your real IP can be exposed even with a VPN running, completely bypassing its protection. This is especially risky because it often happens silently in the background.
• Good to know: WebRTC leaks affect all major browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. The leak occurs at the browser level, not the network level.

DNS Leaks

• What is it? A Domain Name System (DNS) leak occurs when your device sends DNS queries outside the VPN tunnel-typically to your ISP's DNS servers instead of your VPN provider's.
• What does it reveal? Your ISP can see and log every website you visit, your Browse patterns, and potentially your location.
• Common causes:
  • Poorly configured VPN software.
  • Manual DNS settings overriding VPN DNS.
  • IPv6 DNS queries when the VPN only handles IPv4.
  • VPN connection drops that revert to your default DNS.

IP Address Inconsistencies

• What is it? If different online services report varying IP addresses when you're connected to your VPN, it suggests your VPN isn't routing all traffic correctly, or there are multiple paths your data is taking.
• What to look for: When connected to a VPN, all legitimate IP checking services should report the same IP address. Inconsistencies might mean a leak or connection issues.

Legacy Plugin Risks (Java and Flash)

• What is it? Older browser plugins like Java and Flash have known security flaws that can be exploited to reveal your true IP address and bypass VPN protection.
• Why are they dangerous? These plugins can make direct network connections outside of your browser's normal security sandbox, potentially bypassing your VPN. It's generally safest to remove or disable them.

Quick Actions

• Disable IPv6: If your VPN doesn't fully support IPv6, turn it off in your device's network settings.
• Block WebRTC: Use specific browser extensions (like "WebRTC Leak Prevent") or disable WebRTC directly in your browser's settings.
• Use VPN DNS: Make sure your device is explicitly configured to use your VPN provider's DNS servers.
• Disable/Remove Old Plugins: Get rid of or disable Java and Flash plugins in your browser.
• Enable Kill Switch: Always use your VPN's kill switch feature. This is vital; it automatically blocks all internet traffic if your VPN connection unexpectedly drops.

Browser-Specific Settings

• Chrome: Type chrome://flags/#disable-webrtc in the address bar and disable WebRTC.
• Firefox: Type about:config and set media.peerconnection.enabled to false.
• Safari: Go to the Develop menu > Experimental Features > Disable WebRTC.

Advanced Protection Tips

• Configure a Firewall: Set up firewall rules to block any traffic that isn't specifically routed through your VPN.
• Virtual Machines (VMs): For sensitive Browse, use a VM with isolated network settings for an extra layer of security.
• Router-Level VPN: Configure your VPN directly on your router to protect all devices connected to your home network, ensuring consistent security.
• Multiple VPN Providers: Consider using different VPNs for various purposes or to add layers of protection.

Not all VPNs offer the same level of leak protection. When you're choosing a provider, look for these key features:

• IPv6 Leak Protection: The VPN should either properly handle IPv6 traffic within the tunnel or completely block it to prevent any leaks.
• DNS Leak Protection: The VPN client should automatically configure your device to use its own secure DNS servers.
• Kill Switch: This is a crucial safety net that instantly blocks your internet if the VPN connection drops.
• No-Logs Policy: Choose a VPN provider with a verified no-logging policy. This means they don't store records of your online activity.
• Regular Audits: Look for VPNs that undergo independent security audits and publish transparency reports. This shows commitment to security.

If you discover your VPN is leaking, take these steps:

• Disconnect immediately: Stop using the VPN until the issue is resolved
• Check settings: Ensure DNS leak protection and kill switch are enabled
• Try different servers: Connect to different VPN server locations
• Update software: Make sure your VPN app is up to date
• Contact support: Reach out to your VPN provider's support team
• Consider alternatives: If issues persist, consider switching VPN providers

Remember, a leaking VPN is worse than no VPN at all for privacy protection.