Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) allows you to further secure your account by setting up an additional verification step when logging in. This helps further ensure that you (and only you) are able to access your TunnelBear account.
- Protect your account from unauthorized access
- Secure your data from prying eyes
- No extra cost to enable
- Keep your Bear safe from hackers
2FA for TunnelBear
Two-Factor Authentication is available for all platforms (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) and the TunnelBear website. When you turn on 2FA, it will be enabled for all TunnelBear apps across your entire account.
TunnelBear currently supports app authentication and email authentication as options when you choose to enable Two-Factor Authentication.
App authentication
Use third-party authenticator apps to provide you with a unique code each time you log in to TunnelBear. Some common authenticator apps available are Google Authenticator, Authy, Duo, and more. Many dedicated password manager apps also include their own app authenticator functionality.
Using app authentication also allows you to download and store backup codes. These codes can be used to help you get logged in should you ever lose access to your device or authenticator app. It is highly recommended you generate backup codes and store them somewhere secure.
Email authentication
Email authentication allows you to send a one-time authentication code directly to your email address on file, whenever you try to log in. While not as secure as using an authenticator app, email authentication is a much simpler method for turning on 2FA.
Enabling 2FA for TunnelBear
Turning on Two-Factor Authentication for TunnelBear is extremely easy. You can do this from your account on our website, or directly from the TunnelBear application. Regardless of where you choose to enable 2FA, the process will be the same, depending on the type of authentication you select.
Enabling app authentication
- Locate the Two-Factor Authentication feature:
- Mobile: Open your app settings and scroll down until you see Two-Factor Authentication.
- Desktop: Open your app settings and select the General tab.
- Web: Sign-in to your TunnelBear account online, and then select My Account > Security.
- When you enable 2FA, you will be prompted to enter your TunnelBear account password.
- You will then be provided with an option to select "App" or "Email" authentication. Select "App authentication".
- You will receive a QR and numerical code, both of which can be entered into your authenticator app of choice
- Your authenticator app will then provide you with a 6 digit code, which you will be prompted to enter into TunnelBear.
Enabling email authentication
- Locate the Two-Factor Authentication feature:
- Mobile: Open your app settings and scroll down until you see Two-Factor Authentication.
- Desktop: Open your app settings and select the General tab.
- Web: Sign-in to your TunnelBear account online, and then select My Account > Security.
- When you enable 2FA, you will be prompted to enter your TunnelBear account password.
- You will then be provided with an option to select "App" or "Email" authentication. Select "Email authentication".
- We will send an email containing a unique code to the email address associated with your TunnelBear account.
- You will then be prompted to enter that code directly into the TunnelBear.
That's it! 2FA should now be enabled for your account, using app authentication. Moving forward, you will need to enter the code sent to your email address or authenticator app when logging into TunnelBear on a new device.
If you run into issues with accessing your account after enabling 2FA, please make sure to contact our friendly support bears for help.