Firefox Relay to Introduce Temporary Phone Number Masking
Mozilla is working on expanding its Firefox Relay service, which currently allows users to generate temporary email addresses for website registrations or subscriptions, helping to keep their real email addresses private. Now, a new feature is under review that will offer similar functionality for phone numbers.
With this update, Firefox Relay will let users generate temporary phone numbers to hide their real number when signing up for services or receiving SMS notifications. Calls and SMS messages sent to the virtual number will be automatically forwarded to the user’s actual phone number, keeping it hidden from third parties. If needed, users can deactivate the virtual number at any time to stop receiving calls and messages through it.
Just like with email addresses, this service can also help identify the source of information leaks. For example, users can assign different virtual numbers to different registrations. If they start receiving spam SMS or marketing calls, it will be easier to determine which service leaked their information.
Integration with Firefox and Release Dates
Mozilla also plans to integrate Firefox Relay directly into the main Firefox browser. Previously, users needed to install a special add-on to generate and use relay addresses. Soon, when users are signed in to their Firefox Account, the browser will automatically suggest relay addresses in email input fields. This integration is scheduled for September 27.
The phone number masking feature in Firefox Relay is expected to launch on October 11, initially available only to users in the United States and Canada. This service will be paid, but the exact pricing has not yet been announced. The basic service, which allows forwarding from up to five email addresses, remains free. The premium version, Firefox Relay Premium, will cost $1.99 per month or $12 per year after September 27 (previously, there was a promotional price of $0.99 per month). Premium features include unlimited email forwarding, tracker removal, and the ability to use a custom domain.
Firefox Relay’s source code is open and available under the MPL-2.0 license, allowing anyone to set up a similar service on their own infrastructure.