Mozilla Firefox changes the rules: new terms of use spark privacy controversy

Mozilla, known for its commitment to open source, has updated Firefox’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, prompting a wave of criticism. Mozilla now takes a “non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license” to the data users enter into the browser. The wording is so vague that the fate of passwords, browsing history, and even private messages has been called into question.

So much so that the fate of passwords, browsing history, and even private messages has come into question.

Why did Mozilla take this step?”

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According to Brendan Icke, CEO of Brave, the reason lies in Mozilla’s financial dependence on Google, which has long paid to install its default search in Firefox. Once Google is recognized as a monopoly, however, those payments may stop, forcing Mozilla to find new sources of revenue. The updated terms allowing the company to use user data is perhaps part of that strategy.

Mozilla’s updated terms allow the company to use user data.

Although Mozilla insists the changes are aimed at “increasing transparency” and adapting to technology trends, the community saw them as a threat to privacy. Mozilla’s right to unilaterally block access to Firefox without explanation is questionable: a practice more associated with Big Tech than with open-source ideals

Mozilla’s right to unilaterally block access to Firefox without giving a reason is questionable.

Mozilla clarification: what’s really changed?”

After a flurry of discontent, Mozilla has issued a clarification. The company said the new terms do not apply to Firefox’s source code, which remains open source, but only to the official version of the browser. The data collection, representatives said, is needed to improve security, optimize performance, and develop new features.

After a flurry of discontent, the company issued a clarification.

What Mozilla promises:

• Users retain control over privacy settings.
• The information collected will not be used beyond its stated purpose.
• The license does not transfer rights to the users’ content, but only allows the data to be processed to improve the service.

The wording in the documents, however, leaves room for maneuvering, which raises skepticism. For example, the “technical necessity” clause could be interpreted broadly, allowing Mozilla to expand its data collection without explicit consent.

An example of this is the “technical necessity” clause.

What should users do?”

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From March 2025, new Firefox users will automatically accept the updated terms and conditions, while current users will be prompted to agree to them later. Against the backdrop of these changes, Mozilla advises users to carefully check the browser’s privacy settings by disabling options related to the collection of diagnostic data. Those who are challenged by the company’s new policy should consider alternative browsers such as Brave or Vivaldi to retain control over their digital security.

Mozilla’s new privacy policy is a good idea.

Mozilla finds itself at a crossroads: balancing financial stability with its principles of openness, the company is risking the trust of the community. While the clarification has reassured some of the audience, questions remain. As Mozilla has said, “we don’t sell data,” but in an era of digital risk, even a shadow of a doubt could be a reason for users to leave the company for a competitor.

Mozilla said it’s not a company that sells data.

The story Mozilla Firefox changes rules: new terms of use spark privacy controversy was first published on ITZine.ru.