GlossaryPrivacy & SecurityIntermediate

WebRTC Leak

A WebRTC leak exposes your real IP address through the browser's built-in real-time communication feature — even when you are using a VPN or proxy.

Last updated May 28, 2026

Definition

A WebRTC leak happens when a website uses the browser's built-in WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) APIs to discover your true IP address — including your local network address — bypassing the VPN or proxy you are routing other traffic through.

Why it matters

WebRTC is great for video calls, but its IP-discovery mechanism can defeat your anonymity setup. Because it operates at the browser level, your proxy may mask HTTP traffic while WebRTC quietly reveals your real address. Disabling WebRTC, using an anti-detect browser, or choosing a VPN that blocks it prevents the leak.

Examples

1

A leak-test site revealing your real IP via WebRTC despite an active VPN

2

Disabling WebRTC in browser settings to stop the leak

Common Use Cases

Auditing anonymity setups
Hardening browsers for privacy
Preventing IP exposure during automation

Frequently Asked Questions

Disable WebRTC in your browser, use an anti-detect browser that controls it, or choose a VPN that explicitly blocks WebRTC leaks.
Often not on its own — WebRTC operates at the browser level, so it can reveal your real IP even when proxy routing is active.

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All terms

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Browser Fingerprinting

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VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts all of your device's internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, hiding your IP and protecting data on untrusted networks.

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