Open Arsenal

Your Browser, Your Safe Space

PublicSafe is an open-source browser extension built to give users stronger control over their personal data while they browse the web. It focuses on client-side encryption, meaning sensitive information is processed and secured directly in the user’s browser before it is ever transmitted. This approach is designed to reduce exposure of private data to websites, intermediaries, and network observers, while maintaining a simple and accessible user experience.

At its core, PublicSafe provides a set of cryptographic tools that allow users to encrypt and protect text, form inputs, messages, and files using modern standards such as AES-256-GCM and elliptic curve cryptography. Key generation and storage happen locally on the device, ensuring that users retain ownership of their encryption keys. The system is built around a zero-knowledge model, meaning no centralized service is required and no sensitive data needs to leave the user’s control.

Beyond encryption, PublicSafe includes browser-integrated privacy features such as secure clipboard handling, encrypted file workflows, and optional site-level controls for managing when and how data is protected. The extension is designed to work across major browsers using standard WebExtensions APIs, with a minimal interface that prioritizes usability over complexity. Users can enable protection with minimal setup while still having access to advanced controls when needed.

As an open-source project licensed under the AGPL-3.0+, PublicSafe is fully transparent and designed for community review and contribution. Developers and security researchers are encouraged to audit, improve, and extend the codebase. The long-term goal of the project is to make strong cryptographic privacy tools accessible to everyday users without requiring technical expertise, turning the browser into a safer and more controlled environment for personal data.