What to Do If Your IP Address Is Leaked? Your IP is Out There!
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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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18 February 2025
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15 mins read
We usually share valuable guides to help you hide your IP address because hackers can use it to attack your in-home devices and steal information.
Your IP address works like your home address, helping websites and apps connect to your device.
But if your IP address is exposed, it can put your privacy at risk, allowing hackers or trackers to monitor your activity or even try to access your device.
This guide covers brief step-by-step guides on protecting your IP address on multiple devices.
What is an IP Address?
An IP address (Internal Protocol Address) is a unique set of numbers assigned to every device connected to a private network at home, helping you communicate and exchange different types of online data.
Types of IP addresses
- Public IP: Assigned to you by ISPs, this is what websites see when you browse the internet.
- Private IP: Used inside your home or office network to connect devices like phones, laptops, and printers.
- IPv4: 32-bit address (for instance, 192.168.1.1)
- IPv6: 128-bit address (for instance, 2001: 0db8 : 85a3 : : 8a2e : 0370: 7334)
- Static IP: Fixed IP address best suited for hosting servers and websites.
- Dynamic IP: IP address changes frequently, common in most homes.
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How to Check Your IP Address
You can find your IP address anytime using a computer, phone, or tablet. The steps depend on your device. Here's how you can do it:
Windows Computers
- Press the Windows button on your computer or laptop.
- Type ipconfig.
- Select Enter.
- Check the line labeled as IPV4 address.
macOS Devices
System Preferences
- Open your System Preferences.
- Select Network.
Terminal
- Launch Terminal.
- Select Applications > Utilities.
- Type ifconfig.
- Press Enter.
- Look for the network interface.
Android
- Open Settings.
- Select Network & Internet > WiFi.
- Tap on the WiFi network.
- Check for Advanced or IP details for you to see your IP address.
iOS
- Go to Settings and tap WiFi.
- Select the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to.
- Scroll down to the IPv4 Address section to find your IP.
How Can an IP Address Get Leaked?
- Clicking on Suspicious Links
Cybercriminals often use malicious links in text messages, phishing emails, and social media posts. When you click on any of these malicious links, you will be redirected to a fake and counterfeit website designed to steal your IP address, track your location, and lead to cyberattacks.
- Visiting Unprotected Websites
Many websites log and collect the IP addresses of their visitors for security and analytics. If these websites lack basic security or are compromised by malicious actors, your IP address might end up in the wrong hands.
- Using Public WiFi
Your internet activity isn't secure when you connect to free WiFi hotspots in cafes, airports, hotels, and public spaces. The data you send and receive can be intercepted by hackers relying on the same network as you.
- Playing Online Games
When you play online games or use streaming services, your device communicates directly with external servers and users. Some malicious actors use such information to initiate DDoS attacks and track your online activities.
- Using a Free VPN or Proxy
A free VPN or proxy is intended to hide your IP address, but not every service provider offers enhanced security and privacy. Free and low-quality VPNs will cause configuration issues and technical limitations, which might lead to data leaks.
- Downloading P2P Files
File sharing via peer-to-peer systems requires your private devices to communicate and connect with multiple peers. This connection means your IP is visible to anyone on the same network, which can be misused and lead to unauthorized access or attacks.
What to Do If Your IP Address Is Leaked?
- Restart your router multiple times.
- Call your ISP and request a new IP address.
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to hide your IP address.
- Change your WiFi password and router admin password.
- Enable firewalls on your router and devices.
- Disable remote access to your router settings if you don't need it.
How to Prevent Future IP Leaks
- Use a Premium VPN
- A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP from ISPs, prying eyes, online surveillance, and malicious actors.
- Use PureVPN to hide and change your IP address with multiple privacy features, including 256-bit AES encryption, internet kill switch, obfuscated servers, and WireGuard.
- Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links
- Be wary of emails, text messages, and pop-ups on websites asking you to click on links because they might redirect you to a counterfeit website and track your every online activity.
- Secure Your Devices and Network
- Keep your software and devices updated.
- Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and your router.
- Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Be Careful on Public WiFi
- Avoid accessing sensitive information when using public WiFi.
- Use a VPN if you must use public networks.
- Don't Share Personal Information Online
- Be mindful when posting in forums, gaming chats, or social media.
- Sharing personal details can make it easier for others to track you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can someone hack me if they know my IP address?
They can try to find security weaknesses on your network or initiate DDoS attacks, but not directly. That's why securing your IP address and router is essential. Consider using a VPN that offers enhanced protection.
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Can my IP address reveal my location?
Yes, your IP address can show your exact geographical location, the city you live in, and your internet service provider.
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Does changing my IP address stop tracking?
You can use a premium VPN to change and hide your IP address from data tracking and online surveillance.
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Do websites save my IP address?
Yes, most websites store your IP for security and analytics. Some even share or sell this data, so using privacy tools like VPNs and Tor browsers is a good idea.
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Can my IP address get blocked?
Yes, if your IP is blacklisted or you are involved in illegal activities, some websites might block it. If that happens, try changing your IP or using a VPN.
Final Thoughts
Your IP address plays an essential role in your internet connection, but if it gets leaked, it can put your internet privacy at risk. Understanding how IP leaks happen and their potential dangers is the first step toward protecting yourself. By staying informed and mindful of online security, you can reduce risks and keep your digital identity safe.
