When your VPN connects, your home IP address is replaced by the long DNS server name of your VPN. This allows websites to communicate with your device, but only if your VPN is working properly. Performing a few simple tests can help you verify that your VPN is protecting your real IP address.
VPNs act as the silent guardians of the Internet, constantly encrypting your data, concealing your location, and repelling intrusive ads and trackers. But even if your VPN is doing its job, it’s still possible for prying eyes to detect your activity. Many online services and businesses rely on geolocation detection APIs to ensure compliance with regional content laws, prevent fraud, and protect customer privacy. Privacy detection APIs can identify connections to a VPN or proxy and flag them for further investigation.
Validate IP Addresses for Hidden VPN Use
Validate IP for VPN activity occurs when a browser or extension “prefetches” a website before you visit it. This makes browsing faster and more efficient, but can also expose your actual IP to websites. To check for this, run a WebRTC Leak Test and take note of the results. If your normal DNS servers or IP address appear in the result, you have a leak (even with PIA’s dedicated IP option).
Another way that sites can detect if you’re using a VPN is by fingerprinting your device’s time and geographical location. This process is known as “fingerprinting” and is used for nefarious purposes – including, but not limited to, tracking VPN users. A good VPN will keep its IP addresses updated regularly to avoid this type of detection, but even so, some providers may be identifiable by their stale, out-of-date addresses.
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