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Molly

An independent Signal fork for Android with improved features.

Open Source Privacy Friendly Ad-Free No Third-Party Trackers Free of Charge
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Description

Molly is an independent, privacy-focused fork of the Signal messenger for Android, designed to enhance security and user control. Originally offered in two versions (Molly and Molly-FOSS) the project has now unified into a single, fully free and open-source (FOSS) application, removing all proprietary dependencies.

Molly builds on Signal’s strong encryption and privacy foundations, adding features such as passphrase encryption for the local message database, automatic app lockdown after inactivity, and secure shredding of sensitive data from RAM. It also allows users to delete contacts and stop sharing their profile, and clears call notifications alongside expiring messages. Unlike the official Signal app, Molly does not rely on Google’s Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) for push notifications, instead supporting UnifiedPush and other FOSS alternatives, which reduces dependency on proprietary services and improves privacy.

The app is compatible with the official Signal server, meaning users can communicate seamlessly with anyone using Signal while benefiting from Molly’s additional privacy protections.

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Sustainability Features of Molly

Open Source - Free and Open-Source Software

Molly is fully open-source, allowing for independent audits and community contributions to its codebase. Unlike Signal it doesn't use any proprietary blobs by Google.

Privacy Friendly - It does not track users unnecessarily.

Molly uses end-to-end encryption by default for all communications. On device preferences will be encrypted by passphrases. Push Notifications can be done Google-free with Unfied Push.

Ad-Free - Services that do not display advertisements to users, ensuring a cleaner and more private experience.

Molly is ad-free and does not engage in data mining or targeted advertising.

No Third-Party Trackers - Services that do not use third-party cookies or trackers, ensuring user privacy.

Molly does not use third-party trackers, it also has its own push notification infrastructure and does not depend on Google's service on Android.

Free of Charge - The services provided can be used for free.

Signal is free to use for all users, with no premium features locked behind paywalls.

Website

Summary

Molly is a hardened, fully FOSS fork of Signal for Android, offering enhanced privacy features, UnifiedPush support, and no reliance on proprietary services.

Sustainability Score
86

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