WhatsApp, X (Twitter): How to no longer show your IP address during calls

In one of its latest developments, the social network X introduced voice and video calls. If you are someone who regularly uses Elon Musk’s toy, you will now be able to make direct phone calls to your contacts through the application.

This is not a very natural feature for this type of social network, but if you are going to use it, be aware that it carries some risks. Firstly, Calls on X are not end-to-end encryptedDespite lingering doubts, it is unlike what WhatsApp has been offering for several years.

But one thing is for sure: both applications use a certain type of connection between users. This is peer to peer connection The main risk is your IP address being exposed.

Any user with relatively basic knowledge can use this to obtain information about you such as: your geolocation, ISP and other sensitive data.

Peer-to-peer calls: What does it mean?

It is a type of binding that allows users to communicate directly without going through any intermediary servers. In other words, every device on the network peer-to-peer (English peer-to-peer or P2P) is both client and server. This is a type of connection familiar to fans of file sharing, in this case torrent-type downloads.

Typically, when you send messages through a messaging app, these messages pass through an intermediary server before reaching the recipient. However, when it comes to calls, most applications such as WhatsApp and X (Twitter) use direct P2P connection. This method has the advantage of providing better quality callswith less noticeable delays.

The other side of the coin is the results we present to you above. The risk increases even more if you do not block unwanted calls, that is, calls from people you do not know.

How to protect your IP address when searching on X and WhatsApp

You have two options to protect your IP address during calls. The first is to use a VPN. The method works with all applications and offers many advantages for your security. The latter applies to applications that allow disabling peer-to-peer calls.

use VPN

If you want to protect your IP address when making peer-to-peer calls, using a VPN works for all applications. Note that although some applications are like this: WhatsApp is end-to-end encrypted, this does not protect your IP address remains accessible via direct connection during calls.

By using a reliable VPN like NordVPN, you add a second layer of protection. In addition, this type of application allows you to use a borrowed IP address on the Internet. Your real address is thus protected.

Disable peer-to-peer calls

For users who pay particular attention to privacy and personal data protection, WhatsApp and X allow you to protect your IP address during calls. Just disable P2P. In doing so, calls are transferred through intermediary servers that automatically maintain the IP address.

• Press the three dots at the top, then press right Settings If you are using Android. hard press on iPhone Settings In the lower right corner of the WhatsApp interface.
• Go Security then press Advanced Settings all the way down.
• Enable option Protect IP address during calls.

• Tap your profile picture in the top left.
• choose Settings and privacy Later Privacy and security.
• Go private messages.
• Enable the option towards the bottom Enhanced call privacy.
• Note that you can choose who can or cannot call you on the same page.

So, you can choose between these two options to protect your IP address and other sensitive data during calls on messaging applications. VPNs offer double locks by simultaneously changing your IP and encrypting your communications. You can also protect your IP by disabling P2P connection in applications that allow this and routing your communications through relay servers.