Try A Firefox-Based Browser
Don't abandon the Fox yet! 🦊
Over the past week, Mozilla has found itself in controversy. Recently, they announced a terms of service for Firefox and the first edition of the TOS saw a clause that granted "Mozilla a nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license to use information input through Firefox." This led many to accuse Mozilla of no longer pursuing their commitment to protecting users' privacy. Mozilla has since updated its TOS again and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting users' privacy. However, it will be hard for Mozilla to come back from this. Many are now starting to migrate to other browsers following the incident. Firefox was already in trouble, as it already has a low user base; with the recent controversy, I don't see the numbers radically increasing anytime soon.
Though classic Firefox is now a privacy concern, I wouldn't ditch Firefox all together. One of the benefits that Firefox has over Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge is that it's open source. Open source code means that anyone can examine, modify, and enhance the underlying code. This can generate trust and transparency, which play big roles in establishing privacy. It's one of the reasons why for the longest time, even with Mozilla slip ups, Firefox has remained a beloved browser in the privacy community.
If you are not happy with Firefox following the incident, but don't want to get rid of it per se, you should take a look at Firefox-based browsers. These browsers often enhance the original Firefox while implementing additional privacy features. Additionally, the TOS modifications seem to apply to Firefox rather than the source code, representing another advantage. However, be aware that these browsers do come with limitations.
1.) Tor Browser
Developed by the Tor Project in 2002, the Tor Browser is a free and open source Firefox-based browser that helps others bypass censorship and surveillance. Tor Browser is the for individuals prioritizing maximum privacy and security protection. If you would like to contribute to the browser, you can either become a volunteer or make a donation.
⭐ Tails, a portable operating system that also focuses on combating censorship and surveillance, is part of the Tor Project since September 2024. You should check it out!
2.) Mullvad Browser
"Developed in collaboration between the Tor Project and Mullvad VPN", this free and open source browser was created in 2023. Described by the Tor Project as "Tor Browser without the Tor Network", it's still a serious browser for those looking for privacy and security. It includes the uBlock Origin content blocker. With Mullvad VPN responsible for the browser, who have high reputation for upholding privacy, you know that you are set. If you would like to support Mullvad Browser, you can report bugs or issues on their GitHub page, or you can purchase one of Mullvad's paid products.
3.) LibreWolf
"A custom version of Firefox, focused on privacy, security and freedom." Released in 2020, it's designed to increase protection against tracking and fingerprinting, remove all telemetry, and includes the uBlock Origin content blocker. To contribute to the browser development, submit bug reports, issues, and feature requests through their Codeberg page. They do NOT seek donations at this time.
4.) Zen Browser
Created by a small team of developers who care about the web, Zen Browser is a free and open source browser that cares about "your experience, not your data." This is the most recent Firefox-based browser to be released, with the first iteration coming out in July 2024. It contains a simple and clean interface, and has vertical tabs. Zen does not collect, store, or share any personal information, though it does note that some data like crash reports can be sent to Mozilla, but you can opt out. You can contribute to development by reporting any bugs or issues on GitHub page, or you donate to them either on Patreon or Ko-fi.
Created in 2021, Floorp is a free and open source Firefox-based browser from Japan that focuses on privacy and flexibility. Floorp allows you to customize the interface and tab bars in a way you like. They do not collect or share any personal information and state that they only block malicious tracking on websites.
There was controversy last year, when Floorp's source code briefly closed due to issues with others forking Floorp. Floorp is now open source again, but some were annoyed about what seemed like a lack of communication about temporarily changing the source code. If you would like to read more about this, here are several links.
Preparing for a New Beginning for Floorp
When Open Source isn't: Floorp, FUTO...
6.) Waterfox
Created in 2011, Waterfox is a free and open source browser that doesn't collect, store, or share any personal information with you. All telemetry data is disabled and anti-tracking protection is enabled. Support options include submitting issues and bug reports through their GitHub repository or making a donation.
One thing to note about Waterfox. Back in 2020, it was announced that Waterfox was purchased by System1, an adverting company that tries to respect consumers privacy. Though the announcement was transparent, and the author stayed on for development, there were concerns of whether Waterfox would continue to uphold privacy and some left the browser because of this development. Since August 2023, Waterfox is independent and no longer owned by System1.
If none of these browsers satisfy you, and you still want to ditch Firefox altogether, there's always Brave browser, though be aware it has issues of its own. If you still believe in classic Firefox and want to use it, I highly recommend you update your privacy settings.
Only time will tell if Mozilla's Firefox can recover from the recent fallout. Until then, your best bet is to stay updated with privacy-focused web browsers and all privacy-related information. Let me know what you think in the comments.
Until Next Time,
Monique 🖥️
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Ironfox.
Firefox just changed their privacy settings to collect more information on people. Try Brave or duck duck go