One of the only proper free virtual private networks (VPN) will soon be part of the big security vendors; in short, the TunnelBear platform is no more. This move closes off one of the more popular VPN services, especially among those who don’t need much bandwidth.

According to a press release that McAfee put out, the deal officially closes with an undisclosed acquisition fee. By acquiring TunnelBear, the security vendor will be able to strategically align its vision of protecting important customer data. This includes online behavior and personal data.

Having TunnelBear’s secure and intuitive network will help keep customers’ data secure on public Wi-Fi. It will also ensure browsing the Web is private from advertisers; the merger will include the introduction of new abilities to block intrusive ads.

Interestingly, while the TunnelBear platform will integrate with Mcafee Safe Connect, the VPN provider will still make its own products. Both parties did not confirm how much of it will be purely TunnelBear.

Originally, TunnelBear provides free and paid VPN services via its desktop and mobile apps. For US$4.99 to US$9.99/month, users can tunnel their way around cyberspace without anyone prying into their data stream. They can also use the service to access the Worldwide Web in countries with firewalls on lockdown. Let’s hope that, with this purchase, the Beary crew will still keep at it and make VPN services affordable to all.

It will not be long before this very affordable VPN service turns off. So do try it out first before it goes offline permanently.

There is a one-time free service too, limited to 500MB. Here’s to hoping the McAfee acquisition of the brown bear with its green pipe will not be in vain. It’ll be very disappointing if this top-line VPN provider, with an excellent security track record, become a shadow of itself.

(Source: TechCrunch)