How to Know if Your IP Address Is Leaked in 2025
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By Farrukh Mushtaq
Farrukh Mushtaq
See author profileFarrukh Mushtaq, a digital marketer at PureSquare, possesses a keen interest in cybersecurity and enjoys writing about it. With several years of experience in the digital marketing industry, he brings expertise and passion to his work.
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14 February 2025
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14 mins read
Your IP address is like your home address on the internet. It helps websites, apps, and services know where to send data. But if your IP address gets leaked, it can put your privacy at risk. Hackers, advertisers, and even websites can use it to track your online activities. This blog covers everything you need to know about IP addresses, signs of IP leaks, and how to protect your IP address.
What Is an IP Address and Why Does It Matter?
An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique number assigned to your internet connection by your ISP (internet service provider). It helps identify your device online, allowing you to browse websites, stream videos, and send emails. However, your IP address can also reveal personal details like:
- Your approximate location (city or country) is not an accurate address.
- The name of your ISP that provides you internet access.
- Your connection type (mobile, residential, or corporate network)
How Can an IP Address Get Leaked?
Your IP address can become exposed in many ways, including:
Using Websites with WebRTC Leaks
WebRTC technology allows real-time communication (like video calls) in browsers. However, some websites can use WebRTC to see your actual IP address.
DNS Leaks
When you browse the internet, your device sends requests to a DNS (Domain Name System) server. Your actual IP address can be exposed if these requests go through your ISP instead of a secure connection.
Torrenting or Peer-to-Peer Sharing
When you download files using torrents, your IP address is visible to other users in the network. This can make it easy for hackers or companies to track you.
Clicking on Suspicious Links
Phishing websites or tracking links can capture your IP address when you visit them. Some online ads also collect this data for targeted marketing.
Using Unprotected WiFi
When you connect to free WiFi at cafes, libraries, airports, or malls, your IP address can be exposed to hackers who monitor public network traffic.
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Signs That Your IP Address Might Be Leaked
If your IP address is leaked, you might notice the following signs:
- Someone might be tracking your IP if you keep getting ads related to things you recently searched for.
- Your IP address could be compromised if you receive security alerts or see login attempts from unknown locations.
- Some cybercriminals use stolen IP addresses for illegal activities, which can affect your internet connection.
- If you notice unknown devices on your home network, someone might be accessing it using your IP address.
Pay attention to the emails you receive before clicking links. Your emails and phone numbers have probably been leaked.. so anyone can look up your cell provider and target you. A quick zoom in (fuzzy) and TLS check told me this was fake, but it made it through Google servers. pic.twitter.com/CAAFmtbUI6
— Teneika Askew | Analytics & Automation (@teneikaask_you) February 14, 2025
What to Do If Your IP Address Is Leaked?
If you suspect your IP address is exposed, here’s how to fix it:
Restart Your Router to Get a New IP
- Turn off your router and unplug it for a few minutes.
- Restart it and check if your IP address has changed (you can check by searching What is my IP? on Google).
- If you still have the same IP, your ISP might have assigned you a static IP.
Use a VPN for Privacy
- A VPN (Virtual Private Network) hides your real IP address by routing your connection through a secure server.
- This makes it harder for websites, advertisers, or hackers to track you.
- Choose a reliable VPN with strong encryption to stay safe.
Contact Your ISP for a New IP Address
- If restarting your router doesn’t work, call your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and request a new IP.
- Some ISPs may charge for this service, but most allow free changes for dynamic IPs.
Use a Secure DNS Service
- Switch to a secure DNS provider like Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) or Google DNS (8.8.8.8) to prevent DNS leaks.
- This adds an extra layer of security when browsing.
Be Cautious When Clicking Links
- Avoid clicking unknown links or pop-ups, especially in emails from unfamiliar senders.
- Always check the URL before visiting a site.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can someone track me if they have my IP address?
Yes, but only your general location (city or country) and internet service provider. While they can't find your exact address, you can be on the verge of hacking attempts, phishing, and ransomware attacks.
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Does incognito mode hide my IP address?
No, it only prevents your browser from saving history and cookies. Websites, advertisers, and your internet provider can still see your IP. To hide and change your IP address, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
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Is using a VPN legal?
Yes, VPNs are legal in most countries, and you can use one to protect their privacy. However, if you are using a VPN for illegal activities like hacking or fraud, it’s still a crime and can lead to serious trouble.
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Can I check if my IP address is leaked?
To check for an active IP leak, you should use websites like WhatIsMyIP. If your IP address has been leaked in a data breach, dark web monitoring can send your alert notifications to take action if need be.
Final Thoughts
If you wish to enhance online privacy, use a VPN to change your IP address and prevent prying eyes, hackers, and government surveillance from tracking online activities. Use PureVPN that offers WebRTC protection, DNS leak prevention, split tunneling, and obfuscated servers to help you protect your privacy.
