What are WEB RTC LEAKS and how to protect yourself from them
Stefany Anderson
WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communications) is a technology thanks to which you can communicate via video and audio communication in browsers. WebRTC is built into Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Opera browsers. Therefore, you do not need to install third-party programs or extensions for communication through the browser.
WebRTC ensures user privacy. For this, technology protects the IP address from eavesdropping and hacking. Sometimes WebRTC is hacked, this process is called WebRTC Leak.
WEB RTC LEAKS and protecting yourself from them
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What is WebRTC Leak?
This is a leak of the real IP address. This happens when WebRTC is enabled and does not work correctly.
If WebRTC does not work correctly, your VPN or proxy will not help hide traffic properly.
Why WebRTC Leak Violates Privacy
WebRTC detects IP addresses using the ICE (Interactive Connectivity Establishment) protocol. This is done using two methods:
- STUN / TURN servers
- Potential host discovery
We will not go into detail about these technologies. Their task is to determine your IP address. Malicious sites can use STUN / TURN servers and hosts in order to find out the user's IP address (use it for their own purposes).
Therefore, a leak of an IP address via WebRTC is dangerous, because through it the cybercriminals will find out your address, track your actions on the network, etc. Follow WebRTC Leaks.
How to Protect Yourself from a WebRTC Leak?
There are 2 ways:
- Disable WebRTC in browser settings.
- Use VPNs that track WebRTC leaks.
How to Disable WebRTC through a Browser
Let's look at the example of Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
In Chrome, WebRTC is installed by default, so you cannot disable it through the settings.
To do this, go to the online store of extensions and installWebRTC Control. After installation, the application will automatically install and will glow blue.
It's easier with Firefox.
- In the search box, write about: config.
- Agree with the pop-up window and write in the search: media.peerconnection.enabled
- Click on the line that appears, click on toggle / switch. Done.
WebRTC Leakage Protection with VPN
VPN protects your IP address. For this, protocols and encryptions are used that cannot be broken. If the IP is hidden, your data will not be leaked to the public. Therefore, we recommend using VPN apps and extensions that will protect your traffic 24/7. We tested 20 services and recommend these four: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, PureVPN, and SurfShark.
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ExpressVPN is a great VPN service to help you create a private network and secure your internet connection. ExpressVPN monitors WebRTC leaks and reports if something goes wrong. And you can check traffic on WebRTC Leaks on their website in the "Products" section.
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NordVPN - protect traffic from WebRTC Leaks for as little as $3.71 per month (that's only $89 for two years.) Subscribe to our link now and get 3 months of VPN as a limited-time offer. To pay for a subscription, use credit/debit cards, bitcoin, ripple, or ethereum.
In addition to protecting against traffic leaks, your internet speed will remain top-notch due to the NordLynx protocol. Therefore, you will be able to communicate in video and audio conferencing without delay. There are extensions for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
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SurfShark - VPN with WebRTC leak protection. Install the extension in Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox browsers. There are also apps for Windows, Android, and iOS. Check for WebRTC leaks through support or on the ExpressVPN website. If there is a leak, write to support. They will help you protect Internet traffic by changing the protocol or connection point. Military-grade AES-256 GCM is used to encrypt traffic.
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How to find out about a WebRTC leak
Check the ExpressVPN website for a leak. To do this, go to the official website of the developer. Section "Products" - "WebRTC leak test". The service will automatically check your browser and make a conclusion.
FAQ
- Do free VPNs prevent WebRTC Leaks?
We do not recommend using free VPNs. They often work like regular proxies: they change the real IP address to the virtual one. And this change will not help to avoid the WebRTC leak.
- How do I get a money-back guarantee?
To do this, contact support within 30 days of purchase if the developer has a money-back guarantee. The money will be returned to the method it was taken from.
- How to disable WebRTC in Google Chrome on Android?
To do this, in the search bar of your browser, enter: chrome: //flags/#disable-webrtc. Select “Enable”. Done.
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Written by: Stefany Anderson
Technical Writer, Visit My WebSite Techno-copywriter, Privacy, Internet Security