On Monday October 12, Yahoo announced to its users about its plans to shut down the twenty-year-old Yahoo Groups interactive magic as from December 15, 2020 over a steady decline in usage.
Yahoo wrote in part: “We are reaching out today with heavy hearts to let you know that we have decided to shut down Yahoo Groups on December 15, 2020.
“Yahoo Groups has seen a steady decline in usage over the last several years. Over that same period we’ve witnessed unprecedented levels of engagement across our properties as customers seek out premium, trustworthy content. To that end, we must sometimes make difficult decisions regarding products that no longer fit our long-term strategy as we hone our focus on other areas of the business.
“Beginning December 15, 2020 the Yahoo Groups website will shut down and members will no longer be able to send or receive emails from Yahoo Groups. We’ve compiled a comprehensive FAQ here that includes alternative providers and information on how this will impact your group content….”
No doubt, this development is like scattering members of a family in each of the Yahoo Group platforms. Even though members can regroup through the other providers, it may never be the same.
Moderators have a duty and therefore enjoined to let their Yahoo Group members know of whichever other interactive provider(s) they are moving to so that long time members can continue as friends.