Full Report
TunnelBear is one of our favorite free VPNs, thanks to its secure encryption, access to over 40 servers, and access to most features with a free plan.
Analysis Summary
# Main Topic
Assessment of TunnelBear VPN security, features, and usability, particularly focusing on its free tier offerings.
## Key Points
- **Affordability and Free Tier:** TunnelBear is positioned as an affordable VPN, with plans starting as low as $120 for three years ($3.33/month). The free plan is praised for offering access to most features, including servers in all 47 provided locations.
- **Security Features:** The service utilizes secure data encryption and maintains a strict no-logs policy, which does not collect or store user information such as IP addresses or search history.
- **Data Limitation (Free Tier):** The free service is significantly limited by a 2GB/month data bandwidth cap, making activities like streaming or large downloads difficult.
- **Protocol Support:** The application defaults to the 'Auto' protocol setting but supports secure protocols including WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2.
- **Kill Switch:** TunnelBear features a kill switch mechanism named 'VigilantBear,' which blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops, preventing IP exposure. This feature is available on PC and Android apps but explicitly **not** on iOS.
- **Split Tunneling:** The 'SplitBear' feature allows users to selectively route only some applications or websites through the VPN while the rest use the standard internet connection.
- **Usability:** The interface is minimalistic and easy for VPN newcomers, though experienced users might find the lack of deep customization limiting.
## Threat Actors
- Not applicable. This report focuses on a commercial VPN service review, not a specific cyber threat campaign or malicious actor.
## TTPs
- **Data Protection:** Application of strong encryption protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2).
- **Connection Interruption Handling:** Implementation of the VigilantBear (kill switch) to prevent IP/DNS leaks upon connection drop.
- **Traffic Routing:** Use of SplitBear for granular control over tunnel traffic.
- **Anonymity Assurance:** Adherence to a rigorous no-logs policy.
## Affected Systems
- **Platforms:** PC, Mobile devices (Android, iOS mentioned specifically regarding feature parity).
- **Affected Users (Scope):** Both free users (limited by bandwidth) and premium subscribers. The scope detailed is limited to TunnelBear users and potential non-users attempting to access restricted content.
## Mitigations
- **Encryption/Protocol Selection:** Users should ensure their application is set to Auto or manually select secure protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2).
- **Preventing Leaks:** Users must enable VigilantBear (kill switch) to protect their IP address upon connection failure (Note: iOS users lack this feature protection).
- **Troubleshooting Connectivity:** If VPN failure occurs, users are advised to switch servers, update the application, confirm antivirus exceptions, or contact support.
- **Alternative Solutions:** When streaming is critical, users are advised that TunnelBear may be blocked on specific sites, and alternatives like NordVPN or Proton VPN might be more reliable.
## Conclusion
TunnelBear presents a safe and trustworthy VPN option, particularly valuable for users seeking a feature-rich free tier or an affordable long-term subscription, backed by strong encryption and a no-logs commitment. However, users must be aware of the 2GB monthly data restriction on the free plan and the absence of the VigilantBear kill switch on iOS devices, which represents a specific security gap for iOS users. No direct threat intelligence or malicious incidents were detailed in relation to the service itself.