Is your VPN Not Hiding Your Location? Still seeing your real location on websites? Learn why it happens and how to fix VPN location leaks (DNS, IP, WebRTC) with this 2025 step-by-step guide.
VPN Connected, But Still Exposed?
You paid for a VPN to hide your location and protect your privacy. Yet when you check your IP address or open Google Maps, it still shows your real city. Why?
You’re not alone. Thousands of users in the USA, UK, and Canada face this exact issue in 2025. The good news? This guide will show you exactly why your VPN might be leaking your location and how to fix it permanently.
We’ll break down:
- What causes VPN location leaks
- How to test if your VPN is leaking
- 7 Proven Fixes to hide your real IP again
Let’s dive in!
1. Why Is My VPN Not Hiding My Real Location?
There are 3 main reasons:
a. IP Address Leak
Your VPN should mask your IP address with a virtual one. But if there’s a misconfiguration or weak encryption, your real IP might still be visible.
b. DNS Leak
Even if your IP is hidden, your browser might still contact your real ISP’s DNS server, revealing your actual location.
c. WebRTC Leak
Modern browsers (like Chrome, Firefox) have a feature called WebRTC that can expose your internal IP address even when you’re using a VPN.
d. Location Permissions
Google, YouTube, and apps like Maps may use your browser/app location (via GPS or Wi-Fi) even if your IP is masked. If location is ON, they ignore the VPN.
2. How to Check If Your VPN is Leaking Location
Here are 100% free tools to test your VPN:
- WhatIsMyIP.com – Check IP address and location
- DNSLeakTest.com – Check if DNS is leaking
- BrowserLeaks.com – WebRTC IP leak detection
- MyLocation.org – Shows both visible and system-based location
If these tools still show your real location/IP? Your VPN is leaking.
3. 7 Working Fixes to Stop VPN Location Leaks (2025)
Fix 1: Change VPN Server
Sometimes the server you’re connected to is unstable. Try switching to another server (preferably in a different city or country).
Fix 2: Disable WebRTC in Browser
WebRTC can expose your IP even when VPN is on.
- Chrome: Use extension like WebRTC Control
- Firefox: Go to
about:config> Setmedia.peerconnection.enabledtofalse
Fix 3: Use a VPN with DNS Leak Protection
Not all VPNs offer strong DNS protection. Use one like:
- NordVPN (has built-in DNS leak blocker)
- Surfshark
- ExpressVPN
Fix 4: Turn Off Location Access (Mobile + PC)
Manually disable GPS/location for:
- Chrome, Firefox apps
- System-wide on Android or Windows/Mac
Fix 5: Clear Browser Cache and Location History
Sometimes websites store your old location:
- Clear cookies
- Clear browser history & cache
- Restart browser
Fix 6: Enable Kill Switch
This prevents internet from working if VPN disconnects accidentally.
- Check your VPN app settings > Toggle ON Kill Switch
Fix 7: Use Multi-Hop or Double VPN (Optional)
If you want extra security, use multi-hop:
- Traffic goes through two servers, making it nearly impossible to trace back.
- Available in ProtonVPN, NordVPN, Surfshark.
4. Best VPNs That Hide Location Perfectly (2025)
These VPNs offer strong DNS protection, zero IP leaks, and kill switch:
| VPN Service | DNS Leak Protection | WebRTC Shield | Price (USD/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | Yes | Yes | $3.29 |
| Surfshark | Yes | Yes | $2.49 |
| ExpressVPN | Yes | Yes | $6.67 |
| ProtonVPN | Yes | Yes | $4.99 |
| Atlas VPN | Yes | Yes | $1.83 |
5. Extra Tips to Stay Hidden in 2025
- Use privacy-focused browsers (Brave, Firefox)
- Avoid logging into Google accounts when using VPN
- Use Incognito/Private Mode to avoid old data exposure
- Turn off all location permissions when using sensitive apps
- Don’t use free VPNs unless verified (they often leak data!)
FAQs
Q1: Why does Google still show my city with VPN?
A: Likely due to browser location permissions or WebRTC/IP leak. Use tools mentioned above to fix.
Q2: Is a DNS leak dangerous?
A: Yes! Your ISP and websites can still see where you’re going. Use a DNS-leak proof VPN.
Q3: Will disabling GPS fix the issue?
A: Yes, partially. You should disable GPS + fix DNS/WebRTC leaks together.
Q4: Which VPN has no leaks at all?
A: NordVPN and ProtonVPN are known for being leak-proof with proper setup.
Conclusion: Make Your VPN Work Like It Should
You don’t need to live with leaks.
Now you know how to test, why it happens, and how to fix it permanently.
🔐 Stay safe. Stay private. Use a strong VPN and follow the tips above to keep your true location hidden in 2025.