IP transparency check for VPNs users by encrypting and tunnelling traffic from the device, then sending it to the VPN server. This obfuscates the original IP address so that the VPN server only sees traffic going to it. This is how a VPN can be hidden from DNS servers or firewalls and still work.

Unfortunately, a VPN doesn’t completely hide your identity – it’s not like you can simply unplug an ethernet cable or turn off mobile data on your device. The VPN server still knows your connection is a VPN, so when you connect to the internet again, it will see your real IP address and be able to trace your activity. This is called a leak, and it’s a common security issue that can be detected with our free IP transparency check.

IP Transparency Check for VPNs: Why It’s Critical for Access Control

However, the fact that a person is using a VPN does not mean they are doing anything wrong – many people connect to VPNs for legitimate reasons. For example, companies use in-house virtual private networks for remote workers or business travel to ensure secure access to internal systems over public Wi-Fi.

For businesses that rely on accurate IP data, it’s important to identify VPN connections so they can adjust their fraud models accordingly. For instance, ecommerce platforms that detect VPNs can maintain fair pricing strategies and avoid the risks associated with fraudulent spoofing or inventory hoarding. Likewise, adtech providers can identify VPN usage and refine audience segments to avoid invalid traffic or ad fraud.