Think you’re safe just because you use a VPN?

Security done right. Trusted by 25k+ orgs.

Security Consulting

DNS is a weak point that may track everything you do

Many people are unknowingly sharing their data. In this post, I’ll show you how to check if you’re one of them and how to fix it quickly.Your browser needs to find the right website every time you type an address. That’s the role of DNS servers.The issue?➔ By default, you use your internet provider’s DNS ➔ These DNS servers keep records of your searches, habits, and activitiesEven if you use a VPN or clear your history, the information is still stored. It can be sold or used against you.

A poorly set up VPN can lead to DNS leaks.

What’s the problem?

➔ Your DNS requests go outside the secure tunnel
➔ Your ISP can monitor the websites you visit
➔ Your “anonymity” is lost quickly
✓ Many believe VPN = safety

But if your DNS isn’t secure, you are at risk.

You think your VPN keeps you safe

But you’re using 1.1.1.1, 8.8.8.8, or your ISP’s DNS. That means even if your traffic is encrypted, the sites you visit might still leak outside the tunnel. This isn’t just a small mistake, it’s one of the most common privacy failures.

test dns leak test results

Your Internet provider can tell you’re using a VPN, even if they can’t see what you browse

But if your VPN doesn’t have its own DNS, or if your setup is wrong, your DNS queries might leak. What does this mean? You believe you’re safe, but your requests could be handled by Google or your provider. Many think a VPN hides everything, but DNS leaks can occur. Ensure your VPN has its own secure DNS to avoid revealing more than you think. You can use tools like:

www.controld.com/tools/dns-leak-test

They can help check if your DNS requests are leaking outside your VPN.

Popular VPNs like Mullvad and iVPN offer built-in protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, but this only works if they are updated and set up correctly.

⚠️ Caution: Some apps use fixed DNS servers, which can ignore your VPN settings and expose your data. This is known as “DNS hardcoding.”

To stay protected, use privacy-focused public DNS like Quad9 (blocks malware) or AdGuard DNS (blocks ads, trackers, and harmful sites; supports secure DNS methods: DoH, DoT, DNSCrypt).

On Android, apps like RethinkDNS and NetGuard allow you to control how apps resolve domain names, keeping you safe even if an app tries to bypass your VPN.

iVPN logo
Add to compare

iVPN voucher license subscription

Price range: € 29,00 through € 119,00
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Mullvad VPN Voucher 6 months
Add to compare

Mullvad VPN voucher license subscription

Price range: € 29,00 through € 59,00
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Your metadata, like when and how you connect, can still be seen by others even with safe VPNs and DNS

Organisations like the 14 Eyes countries use this information for broad surveillance. That’s why using tools like Tor or multi-hop VPNs is important to make it harder to track you. Want to really protect your privacy? Just encrypting isn’t enough; you also need to hide your metadata.

Read also: Organisations like the 14 Eyes collects and shares your metadata for mass surveillance

Now that you understand the importance of protecting your data, here are some simple tools and habits I use to reduce risks:

    1. Use private browsers like Brave.
    2. Choose VPNs that provide multi-hop.
    3. Set up secure DNS.
    4. Avoid using unprotected public WiFi.
    5. Check app permissions for accessing your data.

Privacy is an ongoing journey, not a final goal.

How do we secure your hardware for communication?

✓ Device purchased privately
✓ DeGoogled the device with a secure Android-based operating system
✓ Operating System installation and app setup is done over a secure, encrypted connection checked weekly for leaks
✓ Uses trusted apps like Threema, Silent Circle, and premium VPNs such as iVPN, Mullvad, and ProtonVPN, bought securely
✓ Virtual numbers available for messengers upon request
✓ No devices or app accounts are stored in our database
✓ Removing unnecessary app permissions
✓ Only authorized apps that prioritize privacy are used
✓ Shipping worldwide is available, with pickup at a nearby location
✓ Payments can be made via bank transfer or cryptocurrency for privacy. Ensure your wallet is private, or find a local crypto trader for assistance.

Read more about Cryptvice business and team here.

Read more about our customize devices here.

Share:

Related Posts