The company stated in its support documentation that “not updating Firefox before the root certificate expires can expose you to significant security threats. iOS users are not impacted due to Firefox on Apple’s mobile platform utilizing a different certificate management system that operates independently of Mozilla’s root certificates. Mozilla recommends that all users verify they are running Firefox 128 or higher immediately to ensure an uninterrupted browsing experience and continued protection against emerging online threats. Without up-to-date security configurations, users become vulnerable to malicious activity, including compromised passwords, exposure to harmful add-ons, and the inability to identify fraudulent websites. Users still running Windows 7/8/8.1 or older macOS versions (10.12–10.14) need to ensure they’re on at least Firefox ESR 115.13 to maintain functionality. Similarly, the certificate verification process for DRM-protected content will halt, preventing playback of streaming media that relies on these security measures. Firefox versions below 128 (released in July 2024) will experience the full range of issues once the certificate expires. Desktop users can check their current version by navigating to Menu > Help > About Firefox, which will also initiate an automatic update check. Cyber Security News is a Dedicated News Platform For Cyber News, Cyber Attack News, Hacking News & Vulnerability Analysis. The core of this issue involves a root certificate essential for Firefox’s security infrastructure. When this certificate expires on March 14, systems relying on it will no longer be able to validate signed content, creating widespread disruption properly. The urgency of this update reflects Mozilla’s commitment to maintaining security standards despite its diminished market position. Gurubaran is a co-founder of Cyber Security News and GBHackers On Security. That event caught users by surprise, causing significant disruption and prompting Mozilla to scramble for a fix. Unlike that situation, Mozilla is now providing advance warning, giving users several weeks to prepare before the March 14 deadline. The certificate expiration affects a broad spectrum of functionality within Firefox.
This Cyber News was published on cybersecuritynews.com. Publication date: Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:10:09 +0000