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Proxy Check

Understand common proxy signals and why detection isn't always perfect

How proxy detection works

Proxy checks look for signals such as hosting ASNs, suspicious reverse DNS patterns, or proxy/VPN ranges. These are best-effort indicators, not definitive proof.

Common signals

  • Hosting provider or data center ASN
  • Reverse DNS keywords (vpn, proxy, exit, cloud)
  • Shared gateways or carrier NAT (CGNAT)

Proxy detection is not exact. Many checks rely on indirect signals (reverse DNS, network classification, routing behavior, and request headers). Depending on the network you're on, some tests can produce false positives, especially when an IP belongs to a shared gateway, corporate network, or mobile carrier.

If you're using a proxy or VPN and it wasn't detected, it may simply mean there were no obvious signals available. Detection methods also change over time.

If your goal is privacy on public Wi-Fi, a VPN is usually safer than a proxy. See VPN vs Proxy for a quick comparison.

To test a different IP address, use the IP lookup tool.

Related: ASN, CGNAT, and ASN in networking.

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Frequently asked questions

How accurate is proxy detection?
Proxy detection is not perfectly accurate. Many methods rely on indirect signals (headers, reverse DNS, network classification), so false positives and false negatives can happen.
Why can a mobile or corporate network look like a proxy?
Large networks often route many users through shared gateways and carrier NAT. That shared infrastructure can resemble proxy-like behavior to some detection checks.
If this tool says "not a proxy", am I safe?
No. "Not a proxy" only means the tool did not find strong signals. It does not guarantee an IP is residential or that a VPN/proxy is not in use.
Can reverse DNS reveal VPN or proxy usage?
Sometimes. Some providers use recognizable hostnames in PTR records, but many do not. Reverse DNS can help interpret results but is not definitive.
What should I do if I get a false positive?
Try testing from a different network, reboot your router to get a new IP (if your ISP rotates), and compare results with IP/ASN details and reverse DNS.