Firefox to block crapware

Mozilla's next big release of Firefox will block downloads of not-very-nice software.

The open-source house confirmed on Monday the Firefox 48 will warn users before downloading potentially unwanted programs (that's things like browser toolbars and adware).

The aim is to alert people when they are getting a download package that, while not considered malware, was not what they asked for or expected. Users will have the option to block the download or allow it to continue.

Firefox 48, due out on Tuesday, will also warn users when it encounters an "unusual" file type that is not commonly seen as a download. Like the potentially unwanted program warnings, the aim will be to raise user attention to downloads that were attempting to covertly install themselves without warning or notification. ®