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ChitaVPN security tools

DNS leak test

discover if your VPN is actually a VPN-shaped illusion!

How to Identify a DNS Leak

You may have a DNS leak if:
Matching IPs or Locations:

When you run a DNS leak test, if you see your own internet address (IP address) or country listed, that's a sign of a leak. Basically, the test should show the fake location you picked through your privacy tool, not your real one.

Mismatched DNS Servers:

The test results might show different internet address servers (DNS servers) than the ones your privacy tool gives you. This means your device might be going around the secure servers and leaking your information.



If you're using ChitaVPN and think there's a DNS leak, contact support for help.

Your DNS servers

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IP address
Provider
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What is DNS ?

Imagine the internet is a giant city, and websites are the buildings. DNS is like a big address book for this city. Instead of remembering long, confusing building numbers (like 192.0.2.1), you just use easy names (like google.com). DNS translates these names into numbers that computers understand, so you can always find the website you're looking for.

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How Does DNS Work ?

When you type a website address, your device asks a special helper (DNS server) to look up the real address (IP address). The DNS server checks its giant address book and tells your device the right number. Then, your device can connect to the website.

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Why is DNS Important ?

DNS makes the internet much easier to use! Without it, we'd all be stuck memorizing long numbers. Also, some internet providers might use their own address books to track where you go online. Knowing about DNS helps you understand how the internet works and gives you more control over your online experience.

What is a DNS Leak?

A DNS leak is a security issue that can expose your browsing activity even if you're using a VPN. Normally, your device should send DNS requests through your VPN's secure tunnel. However, a leak occurs if your device accidentally bypasses the VPN and sends these requests to your ISP's DNS server.

Why is a DNS Leak Dangerous?

Imagine you're trying to find a friend's house online. Normally, you use a map app to get directions. But with a DNS leak, it's like leaving a trail of footprints everywhere you look!


Your internet provider can see your browsing history This is the company you pay for internet access (ISP). A leak lets them see which websites you visit. They could track what you do online, and in some countries, they're even forced by law to share this information!


Hackers can target youThese bad guys can use a leak to find the websites you visit. This can lead to them sending you fake emails trying to steal your information (phishing) or annoying ads for viruses (malware). They might even try to spy on you on social media to guess your passwords!


** Think about it - you wouldn't want your boss to know you're looking for a new job online, right? A DNS leak exposes your privacy in the same way.

What Causes DNS Leaks in VPNs ?

Thinking a VPN keeps your browsing habits secret? Here's why your VPN might be spilling your secrets through DNS Leaks

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Operating System Settings

Changes in the settings of your computer's operating system or network setups might lead to DNS leaks, especially if the VPN connection isn't set as the main route for internet traffic.

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IPv6 Compatibility

If a VPN doesn't fully support IPv6, DNS requests made over IPv6 connections might sneak past the VPN tunnel, causing leaks.

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Network Changes

Unexpected shifts in the network, like switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data, could break the VPN connection and result in DNS leaks.

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Misconfigured network settings

If your network setup isn't done right, it can cause DNS leaks. This could happen due to technical glitches or accidental changes.

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Malware

Malicious software on your device can interfere with your VPN connection and lead to DNS leaks. Malware may alter network settings or hijack DNS requests, bypassing the VPN tunnel.

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Third-party DNS Servers or applications

Some third-party DNS Servers and applications installed on your device might conflict with your VPN software, causing DNS leaks. These applications could include firewall software, security suites, or network monitoring tools.

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VPN or proxy services

While VPNs are designed to protect your online privacy, some VPN services may have vulnerabilities that could result in DNS leaks. It's essential to choose a reliable VPN provider with robust security measures.

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DNS spoofing

DNS spoofing means tricking DNS responses to redirect users to harmful websites. If your DNS requests are tampered with and redirected, it can cause DNS leaks and put your privacy at risk.

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ISP DNS redirection

Certain internet service providers (ISPs) reroute DNS queries to their own servers, bypassing your VPN's DNS settings. This can happen on purpose by ISPs for different reasons, including monitoring and filtering internet traffic.

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Manually configured VPN

If you manually configure your VPN settings and make mistakes, it can result in DNS leaks. Incorrect settings or misconfigured options may cause DNS requests to bypass the VPN tunnel.

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You've been hacked

If your device has been compromised by hackers, they may manipulate your network settings or DNS configuration to intercept your traffic. This can lead to DNS leaks and expose your online activities.

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Manual DNS configuration

Setting up DNS settings on your device manually can create vulnerabilities that might lead to DNS leaks. Incorrectly specified DNS servers or incomplete setups might let DNS requests bypass the VPN tunnel.

How to fix and prevent DNS leaks

some tips you should know

Use a DNS Leak-Proof VPN

The best defense is a good offense! Invest in a reputable VPN service that offers built-in DNS leak protection. This ensures all your internet traffic travels safely through a secure tunnel.

Static IP and DNS Change

This involves assigning a permanent internet address (static IP) and using a reliable internet address provider (DNS server) for better leak protection. However, it's a bit technical.

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Disable IPv6

Some VPNs might not fully support IPv6 traffic. Disabling IPv6 on your device can help prevent leaks through this protocol, but be sure your internet provider supports this change.

Configure DNS Settings

I In some situations, you might need to manually adjust your device's settings to use the VPN's internet address provider (DNS server). Check your VPN provider's guide for specific steps (it can be tricky).

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Clear your DNS Cache

Sometimes clearing your device's internet memory (DNS cache) can help prevent leaks caused by old information.

Update Router Firmware

Keeping your router's software up-to-date can fix weaknesses that might lead to leaks.

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How does ChitaVPN prevent DNS leaks?

Our VPN, will block all the DNS requests that your device is making and direct them through a safe, encrypted tunnel

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Private DNS Servers

Instead of using your internet provider's DNS servers, which might not be as secure, ChitaVPN uses its own protected DNS servers. This keeps your DNS requests private and secure within the encrypted VPN tunnel.

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No activity or connection logs

ChitaVPN doesn't store any information about what you do online or the connections you make. This protects your privacy and ensures that your browsing history stays private.

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End-to-end encryption

ChitaVPN uses strong encryption protocols to keep your internet traffic safe from unauthorized access or monitoring as it moves between your device and the VPN server.

FAQ : DNS leak checker