Mozilla’s recent changes to Firefox’s privacy policy have sparked backlash among users, particularly regarding data-sharing practices. A new FAQ update has raised concerns, as it no longer explicitly states that Mozilla does not sell or buy user data. Instead, it confirms that Firefox may share data with partners.
The controversy began when Android users received notifications about changes in Firefox’s data-sharing policies, particularly regarding location data. Mozilla later clarified that Firefox collects two types of data by default: technical data on browser functionality and interactional data, which includes user preferences, the number of open tabs, and browser feature usage. The company asserts that this data is stripped of identifying information before being shared.
Additionally, Mozilla introduced its first Terms of Use document for Firefox, which grants the company a broad license to use user-inputted data to “help navigate, experience, and interact with online content.” Many users find this clause alarming, given that Mozilla has long promoted Firefox as a privacy-focused browser.
The policy changes have fueled strong criticism on platforms like Reddit and GitHub, with users expressing frustration over Mozilla’s shift in stance. Some long-time supporters are reconsidering their use of the browser, with some stating they will stop supporting Mozilla financially. Many users are now exploring alternative browsers, such as DuckDuckGo, Brave, or Firefox forks that remove telemetry tracking.
While Mozilla allows users to opt out of data collection, its decision to change privacy terms without widespread communication has damaged trust. The changes raise questions about Mozilla’s long-term commitment to privacy, leading many to seek alternative browsers that align more closely with their expectations of data protection.
Filed in . Read more about Data, Firefox, Mozilla, Mozilla Firefox and Privacy.
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