Users are advised to update Firefox now to ensure their web browser remains secure.

      Mozilla is advising users to upgrade Firefox before Friday, March 14, 2025, due to a root certificate that will soon expire, as initially reported by Bleeping Computer. Not updating to the latest version of the browser may lead to disruptions and security vulnerabilities.

      Mozilla detailed the potential consequences of not updating: “On March 14, 2025, a root certificate that verifies signed content and add-ons for various Mozilla projects, including Firefox, will expire. Users must update to Firefox version 128 or higher (or ESR 115.13+ for ESR users, including those on Windows 7/8/8.1 and macOS 10.12–10.14) to avoid substantial issues with add-ons, content signing, and DRM-protected media playback.

      Neglecting the update will disable features that depend on remote updates, turn off installed add-ons, and could stop DRM-protected content, such as streaming services, from functioning. Additionally, systems reliant on content verification may cease to operate correctly.”

      The document further stated that failing to update might expose users to security hazards, including compromised passwords, user data, and the risk of unknowingly visiting fraudulent or insecure sites. Mozilla recommends that users verify they are using the latest Firefox version by navigating to Menu > Help > About Firefox.

      The issue of the expiring root certificate impacts Firefox users on Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS, but does not affect iOS due to its independent root certificate management system. Firefox-based browsers like Waterfox, Tor, and LibreWolf should also be updated to their latest versions.

      Firefox users can enhance their data security by updating their passwords with reputable password managers that assist in creating strong passwords. Furthermore, using reliable antivirus software is also advisable to safeguard against online threats.

      Judy Sanhz is a Digital Trends computing writer who covers all computing news and has a passion for all operating systems and devices.

      DuckDuckGo has launched a new browser that could enhance online safety for Mac users. While DuckDuckGo is a well-known alternative to Google's search engine, it also offers a web browser for iPhone and Android that prioritizes privacy and security. The DuckDuckGo browser is now available for Mac as a public beta.

      A standout feature of DuckDuckGo's browser is the Fire button located in the upper right corner of each window, which allows users to erase browser history, cookies, web caches, and visited URLs with a single click, maintaining privacy even on shared computers. The browser includes additional features such as Duck Player, which prevents YouTube from utilizing ad tracking, cookies, and suggested videos. DuckDuckGo email offers a functionality similar to Apple's Hide My Email, providing an @duck.com address that forwards to your actual account, which can be easily disabled if overloaded with spam.

      Microsoft has introduced a new measure to guard against various types of fraud that can result from simply mistyping a website's URL. As announced on Monday, website typo protection has been added to the Microsoft Defender SmartScreen service, helping defend against cyber threats like “typosquatters,” which can encompass phishing, malware, and other scams.

      Apple has released another essential security update, addressing zero-day vulnerabilities in macOS Monterey 12.6 and Big Sur 11.7. This flaw also impacts iPhones and iPads, necessitating updates to iOS 15.7 and iPadOS 15.7 for these devices to ensure their protection. This marks the eighth zero-day issue reported this year, potentially leading Apple to surpass last year's concerning record of 12 zero-day vulnerabilities.