What is WebRTC?

WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is an open-source technology built into all modern browsers that enables real-time audio, video and data communication directly between browsers – without plugins or additional software. It is used for video calls, file sharing and online gaming.

Developed byGoogle, Mozilla, W3C

Supported byChrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge

Use casesVideo calls, file sharing, gaming

ProtocolSTUN, TURN, ICE

The privacy problem

To establish peer-to-peer connections, WebRTC uses STUN servers to discover your real IP address – including your local IP (e.g. 192.168.1.1) and your public IP. This happens at the browser level, bypassing VPN tunnels. Websites can use JavaScript to query your real IP address even if you are using a VPN.

Reveals local IPYes – always

Reveals public IPYes – bypasses VPN

Requires user actionNo – happens automatically

How to prevent WebRTC leaks

Firefox about:config → media.peerconnection.enabled = false

Chrome Use "WebRTC Leak Prevent" extension

Brave Settings → Privacy → WebRTC IP handling policy

VPN Choose a VPN with WebRTC leak protection

Safari WebRTC disabled by default in some versions

Test your browser now

WebRTC Leak Test DNS Leak Test What is a VPN?

Knowledge WebRTC DNS Leak IP Lookup My IP

WebRTC and online privacy

WebRTC is a powerful browser technology for real-time communication but poses a significant privacy risk. It can reveal your real IP address – including local network IPs – even when using a VPN. This is because WebRTC operates at the browser level and bypasses VPN tunnels. Disabling WebRTC in your browser or using a VPN with WebRTC leak protection prevents this exposure.