WebRTC is a browser technology that allows audio and video communications to work inside web pages.
However, this technology can lead to your IP address being exposed, even when you’re using a VPN – although the best VPNs will ensure this doesn’t happen.
When your IP address is revealed it’s called a WebRTC leak. You can read all about WebRTC leaks in our leak testing guide.
You can run a leak test to find out if your IP address is being exposed by visiting this page. If you can see your true IP address on the test results, you’re experiencing a WebRTC leak.
Some VPN browser extensions come with WebRTC leak blocking, so make sure to enable it before you start browsing.
If after that you’re still experiencing WebRTC leaks it’s best to disable WebRTC altogether.
Disabling WebRTC is a little tricky if you’re using Google Chrome, though.
Unlike other web browsers, such as Mozilla Firefox, which allow you to disable WebRTC through the browser settings, you’ll have to use a third party add-on or extension to disable it on Chrome.
Even then, these extensions aren’t always 100% effective.
It’s best to use a high-quality VPN service like ExpressVPN to block WebRTC requests, or even start using a privacy-friendly alternative to Google Chrome.
If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then read on for some suggestions.