Mozilla has once again updated its Firefox Terms of Use after facing strong criticism over vague language that appeared to grant the company extensive rights over user-uploaded information. This marks the second revision in just one week as the organization attempts to clarify its stance on user data privacy.
Mozilla Clarifies Firefox Terms After User Concerns
In response to mounting concerns, Mozilla has now refined the clause, emphasizing that it only retains rights necessary for Firefox's functionality. The revised Terms of Use explicitly state:
"You give Mozilla the rights necessary to operate Firefox. This includes processing your data as we describe in the Firefox Privacy Notice. It also includes a nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license for the purpose of doing as you request with the content you input in Firefox. This does not give Mozilla any ownership in that content."
This change follows backlash against the previous version, which took effect on February 26 and was criticized for its overly broad wording:
"When you upload or input information through Firefox, you hereby grant us a nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to use that information to help you navigate, experience, and interact with online content as you indicate with your use of Firefox."
Mozilla originally introduced these terms alongside an updated Privacy Notice to improve transparency regarding data practices. However, the language led to confusion and concerns that Mozilla was claiming extensive rights over user data.
Mozilla Responds to Privacy Concerns
Ajit Varma, Mozilla’s VP of Product, addressed the controversy, stating:
"We've been listening to some of our community's concerns with parts of the TOU, specifically about licensing. Our intent was just to be as clear as possible about how we make Firefox work, but in doing so we also created some confusion and concern."
Mozilla reaffirmed its commitment to user privacy, emphasizing that it does not sell or purchase user data. However, certain jurisdictions interpret the term "sell" more broadly, encompassing any exchange of personal information for monetary or operational benefits.
The company also acknowledged that it collects and shares limited data with partners, specifically for:
Optional ads displayed on the New Tab page
These revenue-generating practices help keep Firefox financially sustainable while maintaining user privacy safeguards.
Firefox AI Chatbot Data Collection Explained
Another area of scrutiny has been Mozilla's handling of data from AI chatbots integrated into Firefox's sidebar. Mozilla clarified that while it does not access the actual conversations users have with third-party AI chatbots, it does collect technical and interaction data to improve browser performance. This includes:
Frequency of chatbot provider selection
Usage of suggested prompts
Length of selected text
Mozilla stressed that any shared data is either stripped of identifiable details, aggregated, or processed through privacy-preserving technologies like Oblivious HTTP (OHTTP).
Mozilla’s Policy Change Amidst Google’s Privacy Controversy
Mozilla’s updated terms come at a time when Google is also facing scrutiny over its new ad-tracking policies. The search giant's Ads Platforms Program Policies, which took effect on February 16, 2025, permit the use of IP addresses for user fingerprinting—an approach that allows advertisers to track users across platforms without re-identification.
The U.K.’s Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has strongly criticized Google's policy, labeling it "irresponsible." The regulator stated:
"Organizations seeking to deploy fingerprinting techniques for advertising will need to demonstrate how they are complying with data protection laws. These include providing users with transparency, securing freely-given consent, ensuring fair processing, and upholding information rights such as the right to erasure."
Final Thoughts: Firefox’s Privacy Commitment
Mozilla’s rapid response to user feedback highlights its commitment to transparency and user trust. As privacy concerns continue to shape the digital landscape, Mozilla faces the challenge of balancing commercial viability with its strong stance on protecting user data. The revised Terms of Use serve as a step towards clearer communication, ensuring that Firefox remains a trusted choice for privacy-conscious users.