According to Mozilla, a critical root certificate used for verifying signed content and add-ons across multiple Mozilla projects, including Firefox, is set to expire on March 14, 2025.
Failure to update Firefox to version 128 or higher (or ESR 115.13+ for Extended Support Release users, including those on Windows 7/8/8.1 and macOS 10.12-10.14) could result in significant functionality issues. This includes problems with add-ons, content signing, and the playback of DRM-protected media.
Why This Update is Essential
Mozilla has incorporated a new root certificate in the latest version of Firefox to prevent disruptions. Users running versions older than Firefox 128 or ESR 115.13 must update immediately to avoid potential issues. These updates were officially released on July 9, 2024, and apply to all versions of Firefox across Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
Root certificates serve a vital role in online security. They verify the authenticity of websites, browser add-ons, and software updates. In this particular case, the certificate in question is responsible for ensuring that Firefox add-ons are approved and verified by Mozilla.
If the certificate expires, systems relying on it will no longer be able to confirm authenticity and integrity, leading to disruptions in several browser features, including:
Disabled add-ons
Security alerts (such as breached password notifications)
Problems with playing DRM-protected content
Additionally, not updating before the expiration date could impact Mozilla’s blocklists for detecting harmful add-ons and the revocation lists for untrusted SSL certificates. This could expose users to increased security risks and outdated protections.
What Happens If You Skip the Update?
Although Firefox may still function without the update, users could encounter problems such as:
Disabled add-ons
Issues with DRM media playback
Security vulnerabilities due to outdated protections
Moreover, skipping the update means missing out on crucial security patches and performance enhancements, leaving users exposed to potential threats.
How to Check and Update Your Firefox Version
To ensure your browser is up to date, follow these steps:
Open Firefox
Navigate to Menu > Settings > About Firefox
Confirm that you are running version 128 or later
It’s important to note that Firefox for iOS and iPadOS is not affected by this issue. However, users of the Tor Browser, which is based on Firefox ESR, must also ensure they update their software to maintain security and functionality.
By staying updated, users can continue to enjoy a secure and seamless browsing experience without interruptions.
