Could you do this?

I just read an email regarding a firewall product:-

Worm is a new and potentially destructive Internet worm currently making its way around the globe. It is infecting users via e-mail and is scheduled to destroy all Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF, PSD and ZIP files on Feb. 3.

If you upgrade before Feb. 3, we will detect and remove existing Worm infections and prevent future infections.

Then the kicker:-

Free firewall will not protect you from Worm. Only premium products will protect against the Worm.

Is it just me, or does that seem unfair and irresponsible? Even threatening?

Surely if you're going to have a free product line, it should be differentiated by usage type, license restrictions, or power features. I just can't see the justification for deliberately devaluing or holding back on such a core requirement, especially from a product which is already restricted to non-business use.

Back to my question: if you're starting out with a free service, could you ever imagine yourself taking such a step to encourage migration to your paid premium version?

I think it raises important questions about ethically running free product lines or services. It also reminds me of something I noticed on WordPress.com when I was researching last week's codesnipers post. They are holding back on all premium features until they know what and how they're going to charge for them. In their own words, "What is free now will remain free".

Tags: micro isv ethical business