An IP address is what your server uses to identify you online, and every time you go on the internet, your server sets it so that you can connect to the internet. You cannot link to the internet without it.
The upside is that you have your very own IP address, but of course, the downside is that you are immediately identifiable, just like having a license plate on your car. This means that you are vulnerable to attacks from hackers, the government, or anyone else who knows how to use a computer pretty well.
If you have been wondering what someone can actually do if they get a hold of your IP address, let’s talk about it.
How Can I See My IP Address?
There are a lot of different ways that you can see your IP address. There are a lot of sites out there that can give you all the information you need, including what your location is, what server you are using, and what device you’re using it on.
Generally speaking, IP addresses are registered on many different databases that are available to the public. This means that when you connect to various websites and online services, virtually anyone has access to your IP address.
If you have a friend that shares a meme with you, they will also be able to see your IP address.
Warning: Your Personal Details Are Visible
|
Your IP: 18.205.56.209 Country: United States Region: VA City: Ashburn Latitude: 39.0438 Longitude: -77.4874 Timezone: America/New_York ISP: Amazon.com, Inc. |
Scary, Right?This is your personal data that ANYONE can view. The only way to protect yourself fully is with a VPN. A proxy can provide some protection, but a VPN is a more complete solution and will ensure your privacy. We recommend this VPN, or this proxy. |
Someone Can Know Your Location
While this may sound a little bit on the creepy side, it’s actually a really easy thing to do, and the majority of websites out there do this on autopilot. This is because every IP address is attached to a country.
This means that if you live in America and you visit a website located in China, they will automatically show you content in English so that you can understand it. However, there are people that are online that you may not want to show your location to.
If you post on Facebook that you’re just about to go on vacation, and criminals work out your IP address, then it’s going to be pretty easy for them to go to your house and break into it. Hackers and governments can also arrest or attack you if they know your IP address, too.
Your Device Can Be Hacked
If someone is aware of your IP address, then they can attempt to connect to your device. The reality is, there are thousands upon thousands of ports for every IP address out there, and if a hacker knows your IP address, they can use it to get into your device.
Once they have made it in, they can take over your device, pretend to be you and even steal your personal information. There are plenty of things that a hacker can do with your device, from making you vulnerable to marketing scams, to even stealing your identity.
You Can Be Impersonated
If a hacker works out what your Facebook name is, then they can easily call up your provider and pretend to be you. This sounds scary, and the reality is that it’s easier than it sounds. Once hackers know this type of information, you can be susceptible to having your identity stolen in just a matter of hours.
How to Hide Your IP Address
One of the easiest ways to hide your IP address is to use a proxy or a VPN. This is a bridge between the internet and a device. There are a number of different types of proxies out there, but one of the best to protect your personal information is an anonymous proxy.
This type of proxy can easily hide your information from the server that you are trying to connect with. Make sure to find a high-quality proxy that can protect your personal information, and protect you and your sensitive information.
