How do I test for a WebRTC leak?

Connect your VPN, open a leak-test page such as browserleaks.com/webrtc, and look at the addresses WebRTC reports. If your real public IP appears, you're leaking; if only the VPN IP shows, you're covered.

Does a VPN prevent WebRTC leaks on its own?

Not reliably — WebRTC operates inside the browser and can gather addresses outside the tunnel's view. Pair your VPN with a WebRTC block in each browser you use.

Should I disable WebRTC completely?

If you never make browser-based video calls, you can. Most people are better off with the leak-only block (available in uBlock Origin and dedicated extensions), which stops IP exposure without breaking calling sites.

Privacy

What Is a WebRTC Leak? (2026)

By Morgan Rose · Contributor · Published April 2, 2023 · Updated July 6, 2026 · 2 min read

Quick answer

A WebRTC leak happens when your browser's built-in real-time communication engine hands your real IP address to a website even though you're connected to a VPN. WebRTC discovers your addresses through STUN requests that can slip around the VPN tunnel. The fix takes a minute: block WebRTC leaks with a browser extension or setting, then confirm with a WebRTC leak test that only your VPN's IP appears.

The internet has become an integral part of our lives, connecting us to friends, family, and work in real-time. With all the benefits it brings, it’s important to understand the potential security threats that come with it, especially when it comes to online privacy. One such threat is WebRTC Leaks, and this is what we’re going to be discussing today.

What is WebRTC Leak?

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a technology that enables audio and video communication in browsers without the need for additional plugins. However, if not properly configured, WebRTC can compromise your IP address, even if you’re using a VPN, making you vulnerable to cyber attacks.

How to check for WebRTC Leak?

To check for WebRTC leaks, you can use online tools such as BrowserLeaks.com, IPLeak.net, or AstroVPN WebRTC Leak Test which will show if your IP address is being exposed through WebRTC.

Additionally, you can disable WebRTC in your browser or use a VPN to hide your IP address and prevent WebRTC leaks. It’s important to regularly check for WebRTC leaks to ensure that your online activities remain private and secure.

What to do if there is a WebRTC Leak?

If you discover that you have a WebRTC leak, here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself:

Disable WebRTC: The easiest way to prevent WebRTC leaks is to disable the feature in your browser. This can be done by installing a browser extension, such as WebRTC Block, that blocks WebRTC requests.
Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts all your online traffic, making it difficult for anyone to snoop on your online activities.
Keep your browser and plugins up to date: Keeping your browser and plugins up to date ensures that you have the latest security fixes, reducing the risk of WebRTC leaks.
Be mindful of what you share online: Be cautious about the websites you visit and the information you share online, as this can put you at risk of cyber attacks.

WebRTC leaks can be a serious threat to your online privacy, but with a few simple steps, you can protect yourself. Regularly check for WebRTC leaks, and take action to secure your online presence. Stay safe and enjoy the internet!

About the author

Morgan Rose · Contributor

Morgan Rose writes about online privacy, VPN technology and internet censorship for the Veilock blog.