Mozilla has announced a significant revision to its Terms of Use for Firefox, following widespread criticism regarding the language that suggested the company had broad ownership over user data. In an effort to clarify its position, Mozilla seeks to emphasize the limited ways it utilizes user data, aiming to enhance transparency and address community concerns.
Initially introduced on Wednesday, the original terms faced backlash for appearing to grant Mozilla extensive rights over user information. In response to this feedback, Mozilla issued a statement on Friday, explaining, "we’re updating the language to more clearly reflect the limited scope of how Mozilla interacts with user data." This change is part of the company’s commitment to maintaining trust with its user base.
The specific wording that attracted criticism was the statement: "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." This language has now been removed to alleviate concerns over ownership rights.
In the revised terms, Mozilla clarifies that, "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 modification aims to reassure users that their data remains theirs.
Mozilla acknowledges the confusion created by its earlier language and states, “We’ve been listening to some of our community’s concerns with parts of the TOU, specifically about licensing.” The company emphasizes that its intention was to clarify how Firefox operates without creating unnecessary worry among users.
In the same post, Mozilla addresses its previous assurance that "We never sell your data." The company explains that the legal definition of "sale of data" is evolving, leading to various interpretations that can leave businesses uncertain about their obligations regarding user data. Mozilla admits, “there are a number of places where we collect and share some data with our partners” to ensure that Firefox remains commercially viable. However, it reassures users that these practices are transparently outlined in its privacy notice, and the company strives to anonymize data or share it in aggregate form.
By updating its Terms of Use, Mozilla aims to foster a clearer understanding of its data practices while reinforcing its commitment to user privacy and trust. The company continues to prioritize user feedback to enhance the Firefox experience while maintaining transparency in its operations.
