A+ Services

Cloud-based secure browsing service for Firefox goes free

Originally, it was envisaged the service would cost around $50 a year, in return for which users would get an SSL-based secure virtual browser on the web which routes all IP sessions via the firm's servers. And now says the devteam, the service will operate free of charge for most features.

Unlike VPNs and proxy facilities, Cocoon claims its service does not require any proxy settings and allows totally anonymous access to the web, since all credentials are stored temporarily in the cloud whilst the web session takes place.

According to the ExtremeTech newswire , a version of the service for Internet Explorer and Android is in development.

The service, says the newswire, is useful for safe surfing on public WiFi networks since its security-enhanced Linux running through a Squid proxy server, as well as providing several other privacy-related features such as a disposable `mailslot' service, which you can use to sign up to sites that require email registration.

"Finally, Cocoon prevents any and all executable files from downloading and it apparently prevents injection-type drive-by attacks too, though we can't confirm that", notes the newswire.

According to Cocoon, meanwhile, its service was created out of the belief that everyone should have access to the web, have a right to online privacy, and that the act of browsing the web should not expose their computer to malicious code.

"With these as our guiding principles and the increase in hacking and malware that has occurred over the past months we knew we had to make Cocoon a free service that everyone could use. We are now proud to announce that Cocoon, as it is now, and with a few important improvements soon to come, will remain a free service", says the company in a blog posting.

Later this month, adds the firm, Cocoon will implement an interactive virus scanning facility for all downloads routed through the service.

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