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If your IP address has been compromised, especially when participating in online studies and surveys, it's important to get a new one. Survey sites often use IP addresses to ensure data quality and prevent fraudulent responses, so a compromised IP can lead to issues like being blocked from surveys.

Here are the easiest ways to get a new IP address at your house:

1. Reboot Your Router (Easiest Method)
This is often the simplest and most effective way to get a new public IP address. Most home networks use dynamic IP addresses, which means your Internet Service Provider (ISP) assigns you a temporary IP address.

• Steps:
  1. Find your device's current IP address and make a note of it.
  2. Unplug your modem and router from their power sources.
  3. Wait for at least 5 minutes, but it could take longer depending on your ISP.
  4. Plug your modem and router back in. It may take a few minutes for your internet connection to return.
  5. Check your IP address again; it should be different.

2. Release and Renew Your IP Address (Computer Specific)

This method changes the private IP address assigned to your device by your router. This can be useful if you're experiencing connectivity issues on a specific device.

• For Windows:

  1. Open the Run dialog box by pressing the Windows key + R.
  2. Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
  3. Type ipconfig /release and press Enter to release your current IP address.
  4. Type ipconfig /renew and press Enter to get a new IP address automatically.
  5. Type exit and press Enter to close the window.

• For Mac:

  1. Go to System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS).
  2. Click Network.
  3. Select Wi-Fi (or your current connection method like Ethernet).
  4. Click the "Details" button (or "Advanced").
  5. Select the TCP/IP tab.
  6. Click "Renew DHCP Lease."

3. Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)

If the above methods don't work, or if you have a static IP address (less common for residential users), you can contact your ISP and ask them to change your IP address. They may ask you to power cycle your modem and router for a longer period to allow the IP lease to expire.

4. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN is an excellent way to change your public IP address and enhance your online privacy. When you connect to a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a VPN server, making it appear as though you are browsing from the server's location and IP address. However, be aware that some survey sites may detect and prohibit VPN usage, potentially leading to account suspension.

Important Considerations for Online Surveys:

• Survey Site Policies: Many survey sites have measures in place to detect VPNs and proxies to ensure the integrity of their data. Using them against their terms and conditions could result in your account being suspended and your earnings forfeited.
• Residential Proxies: If you are serious about using different IP addresses for surveys, some specialized services offer "residential proxies" which use IP addresses from real residential internet connections. These are generally more expensive and might be necessary if your work depends on consistently appearing from different locations.
• Compromised IP: If your IP address has truly been "compromised" in the context of online surveys, it likely means that the survey platforms have flagged it due to unusual activity, such as multiple survey completions from the same IP, or suspected bot activity. Changing your IP is a good first step, but also be mindful of how you are completing surveys to avoid triggering further flags.