Firefox adds free VPN with 50GB monthly data
▼ Summary
– Firefox 149 introduces a built-in VPN tool that provides up to 50GB of monthly privacy protection by routing browser traffic through a secure proxy.
– The browser VPN differs from Mozilla’s commercial product by only protecting traffic within Firefox, not system-wide.
– The feature includes a toggle for activation and allows users to apply the VPN to up to five specific websites to conserve data.
– The update also adds a Split View function for side-by-side tabs and automatically blocks notifications from malicious sites.
– The release fixes multiple security vulnerabilities, including over 20 high-severity issues like use-after-free flaws.
Mozilla has integrated a significant new privacy feature directly into its browser with the release of Firefox 149. The update introduces a built-in VPN tool that provides users with up to 50GB of monthly data at no cost, offering a streamlined layer of protection for web browsing activities. This service functions as a secure proxy server, exclusively encrypting and routing traffic originating from the Firefox browser itself. It is distinct from the company’s full-scale Mozilla VPN subscription, which is designed to protect all internet traffic from a user’s entire device.
The company emphasizes the tool’s utility for everyday online security. “Whether you’re using public Wi-Fi while traveling, searching for sensitive health information, or shopping for something personal, this feature gives you a simple way to stay protected,” Mozilla stated. Activating the service is straightforward for anyone with a Mozilla account. Once signed in and enabled, it allows users to hide their location and IP address during their browsing session.
Accessibility is a key focus. Users can toggle the VPN feature on or off via a switch in the browser’s top-right interface. To help conserve the monthly data allowance, there is a flexible option to activate the VPN only for up to five specific websites. In-browser notifications will alert users as they approach their 50 GB monthly limit. For reliability, certain essential websites and services are automatically excluded from VPN routing to prevent potential account sign-in issues and to ensure the proxy can reconnect properly if interrupted.
Mozilla has outlined its data collection practices for the new service, stating it will gather only technical and interaction data necessary for performance and stability. “For example, we may log whether a connection succeeded or failed, or record that 2 GB of data was used on a certain day,” the company explained. The routing server is currently based in the United States, selected to optimize location and performance for the best user experience.
The rollout of this free VPN feature begins immediately, though it will be released progressively. Initially, it will be available to users in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. Mozilla has not yet provided a timeline for expanding availability to other regions.
Beyond the VPN, Firefox 149 includes several other notable additions. A new Split View function allows users to place two tabs side by side within the same browser window, a feature already familiar to Chrome users. Mozilla suggests this is useful for planning, comparing information, taking notes, or handling administrative tasks like tax filing. The update also enhances security by having Firefox automatically block notifications and revoke permissions from any website flagged as malicious by its SafeBrowsing protection system.
Finally, this release addresses multiple security vulnerabilities. The patch list includes 46 resolved issues, with more than half rated as high severity. These fixes cover a range of problems, including use-after-free flaws, out-of-bounds errors, vulnerabilities within the JIT engine, and potential sandbox escape exploits.
(Source: BleepingComputer)
