The internet company, Mozilla, is shutting down its Firefox Send and Firefox Notes encryption programs. While discontinuing products is a standard business practice, it is a bit surprising that Firefox is canceling programs that are designed to protect the privacy of its users. However, while loyal fans might be initially upset with the announcement, there's good reason for Mozilla’s actions.
As a company, Mozilla offers several services besides the Firefox web browser. For example, there's the Firefox Lockwise which helps provide digital security for individuals. More recent features and improvements have included stopping companies tracking users and protecting people’s email addresses. Regardless of the feature or service, the one consistent theme with Mozilla is the deeper level of commitment towards providing safety and security to its consumers,
Mozilla recently confirmed in a blog posting that it is ending support for Firefox Send and Firefox Notes due to security problems and irrelevancy, respectively. With Firefox Send, Mozilla explains that malicious agents were creating privacy threats which led to the company taking the service down in the Summer. Since then, Mozilla concluded that the service is probably not worth continuing with, hence the closure. As for Firefox Notes, Mozilla explains it has now served its purpose.
Ending The Encryption Programs
Firefox Send encrypted file-sharing attracted many individuals, including those with malicious intent. These nefarious entities would attack others using a combination of malware and spear phishing attempts, so it makes sense the service is no longer going to be offered in its current form. Furthermore, as it is already closed, users won't have to do anything more. The Firefox Notes situation is a little different considering the encrypted data synching tool for Firefox and Android users is still available. Mozilla has explained that it will begin to decommission the Android app in early November. While the browser extension will still be operational, it won't be supported. However, this will at least provide users with an option to export any notes they've created.
Many loyal users may be frustrated with the vanishing support, but it is important to acknowledge that this gives Mozilla more time and resources to work on its VPN service, Firefox Monitor and Firefox Private Network. This action demonstrates Firefox’s consistent commitment to privacy and security as the canceled programs are not secure and wasting resources. It is worth mentioning that the company has a track record of developing and releasing new services and products, so it possible that Mozilla will redistribute resources to create similar programs in the future. In the meantime, it might be worth users looking to other available internet services or programs that can encrypt files or data.
Source: Mozilla