What is a DNS leak test and why does it matter for your mobile security
A DNS leak test reveals whether your device is exposing your internet activity to your ISP or third parties through unencrypted DNS queries, even when you think your connection is private. ARK's Shield tier includes a DNS leak test as part of its comprehensive mobile security audit.
What DNS leak test actually does
Your device sends DNS queries every time you visit a website. These queries normally ask your ISP or a public DNS resolver to translate a domain name (like google.com) into an IP address. A DNS leak occurs when these queries bypass your intended privacy protection, leaking your browsing habits and location data to parties you didn't authorise. A DNS leak test works by checking whether your device is properly routing DNS queries through your configured DNS server or whether they're leaking through unsecured channels. ARK's DNS leak test scans your network configuration in seconds and flags any exposure, then offers one-tap remediation options to lock down your DNS settings.
Why DNS leak testing matters on mobile
Mobile devices are particularly vulnerable to DNS leaks because they switch between networks frequently, from home Wi-Fi to cellular to public hotspots. Each transition can expose unencrypted DNS queries. If you're using a privacy-focused DNS service or VPN (neither of which ARK provides, but which ARK complements), a DNS leak completely defeats the purpose by exposing your activity anyway. DNS leaks are silent, invisible, and happen in the background, which is why automated testing is valuable. ARK's Shield tier runs this test on-demand so you know whether your privacy tools are actually working as intended.
How ARK's DNS leak test fits into your security score
ARK gives your phone a 0-100 security credit score and then runs targeted scans across device security, network exposure, app permissions, and breach exposure. The DNS leak test is one component of your network exposure audit, available in the Shield subscription tier at £2.99 per month or £29.99 per year. When ARK detects a DNS leak, it provides specific guidance and direct links to fix the issue on your device. This is part of ARK's privacy-first approach: testing happens on-device when possible, and your scan results aren't shared with third parties on the free or Shield tiers.
DNS leak test vs other network security checks
ARK's Shield tier also includes Wi-Fi analyser to detect weak network encryption, password health check to audit saved passwords, dark-web monitoring to alert you if your email appears in leaked databases, and 2FA audit to confirm you're using two-factor authentication on critical accounts. Together these provide a complete picture of your network and account security without requiring you to be a security expert. Each test ends with actionable fixes you can apply in one tap.
Privacy standards in DNS leak testing
ARK processes DNS leak tests locally on your device wherever possible. Your IP address and browsing patterns are never sent to MRVL servers without your explicit consent. Personal information like email addresses and device names are stored in iOS SecureStore, encrypted at rest, never in plain text. If you upgrade to Fortress tier (£7.99 per month or £79.99 per year), you also gain GDPR Autopilot, which automates data-subject access requests to companies holding your data, and SDK X-Ray, which audits the tracking code embedded in your installed apps.
Get your mobile security score and DNS leak test in one tap.
Frequently asked questions
Will a DNS leak test slow down my phone or internet?
No. ARK's DNS leak test runs as a targeted scan that takes seconds and doesn't consume bandwidth or affect your connection speed.
Can I fix a DNS leak myself without an app?
Yes, but you need to know what to look for. ARK automates the detection and provides one-tap remediation links so you don't need to dig into network settings yourself.
Is DNS leak testing the same as checking my IP address?
No. Checking your IP shows your public address; DNS leak testing checks whether your DNS queries are leaking that address through unencrypted channels. Both matter for privacy.
Do I need Shield tier for DNS leak testing?
Yes. ARK's free tier includes device permission checks and stalkerware detection. DNS leak testing is available in Shield tier (£2.99/mo or £29.99/yr).
Does ARK replace a VPN?
No. ARK tests whether your privacy tools are working correctly. It's a security audit tool, not a VPN provider. ARK complements privacy tools you already use.
How often should I run a DNS leak test?
Once per month is reasonable, or whenever you change your DNS provider or network settings. ARK lets you run the test on-demand.