A VPN leak exposes your real IP address or browsing data despite using a VPN. This guide explains common leak types, how to test for them, and which VPNs reliably prevent leaks with features like kill switches and DNS protection.
Best VPNs to Prevent Leaks
ExpressVPN
- Network Lock kill switch (blocks all traffic if VPN drops)
- Private DNS on all servers
- Independent audit-confirmed no-logs policy
NordVPN
- Double VPN and Onion-over-VPN options
- Custom DNS leak protection
- App-specific kill switch for Windows/Linux
Proton VPN
- Always-on kill switch (even after reboots)
- Open-source apps for transparency
- Secure Core servers for extra protection
Common VPN Leak Types
- IP leaks: Your real IP address becomes visible, often during VPN connection drops or WebRTC requests in browsers.
- DNS leaks: DNS queries bypass the VPN tunnel, revealing your browsing history to your ISP.
- IPv6 leaks: Many VPNs don't properly handle IPv6 traffic, which may travel outside the encrypted tunnel.
- WebRTC leaks: Browser APIs can expose your local IP address even with a VPN active.
Our VPN testing tools page includes free leak checkers to identify these issues.
How to Test for VPN Leaks
- Connect to a VPN server in another country
- Visit BrowserLeaks WebRTC test and DNSLeakTest
- Check if tests show your real location/ISP (leak) or the VPN server's details
- Disconnect the VPN while keeping test pages open – your real info shouldn't appear
- Repeat tests with different VPN protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, etc.)
VPN Leak FAQs
Can a VPN leak my passwords or banking details?
No – leaks typically expose your IP or browsing metadata, not encrypted HTTPS traffic. However, leaks could reveal you're accessing sensitive sites.
Does incognito mode prevent WebRTC leaks?
No – WebRTC leaks occur at the browser level regardless of private browsing modes. Use a VPN with WebRTC blocking like NordVPN or disable WebRTC manually.
Are mobile VPN apps less prone to leaks?
Yes – mobile operating systems have simpler networking stacks, but you should still test for leaks. iOS is particularly resistant to WebRTC leaks.
Can I fix leaks without changing VPNs?
Some leaks (WebRTC, IPv6) can be mitigated with browser extensions or OS settings, but DNS/IP leaks typically require VPN-level fixes like a kill switch.
Stop VPN Leaks Today
ExpressVPN's Network Lock technology and audited no-logs policy make it our top pick for leak-proof protection. With 24/7 support and apps for all devices, it's the simplest way to ensure your traffic never leaves the encrypted tunnel.
All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.
