Search Support

Avoid support scams. We will never ask you to call or text a phone number or share personal information. Please report suspicious activity using the “Report Abuse” option.

Learn More

Recent update asks permission to turn on my camera & audio without my knowing, is that so?

  • 6 replies
  • 8 have this problem
  • 9 views
  • Last reply by philipp

more options

Recent update asks permission to turn on my camera & audio without my knowing, is that so? Does this mean that Big Brother or who ever can turn on my Audio/Video and see what I'm doing?

Recent update asks permission to turn on my camera & audio without my knowing, is that so? Does this mean that Big Brother or who ever can turn on my Audio/Video and see what I'm doing?

Chosen solution

firefox will always ask you for permission each time before video/audio recording is turned on - so only you can turn it on.

the permission is used for technologies like webrtc: https://blog.mozilla.org/blog/2013/09/17/webrtc-now-available-across-mobile-and-desktop-with-new-firefox-for-android-compatibility/

Read this answer in context 👍 4

All Replies (6)

more options

hello Fireeagle, the reason behind all the requested permissions is explained in How does Firefox for Android use the permissions it requests?

more options

Can I get it dumbed down a bit so I can understand the answer please? Does this mean that I am giving permission (by accepting this update), to Big Brother or who ever can turn on my Audio/Video and see what I'm doing?

more options

Chosen Solution

firefox will always ask you for permission each time before video/audio recording is turned on - so only you can turn it on.

the permission is used for technologies like webrtc: https://blog.mozilla.org/blog/2013/09/17/webrtc-now-available-across-mobile-and-desktop-with-new-firefox-for-android-compatibility/

more options

That's what I wanted to hear, thanks for your help

more options

This explanation does not appear to be a reasonable one. The Firefox Android audio and video update states:

"...This permission allows the app to use the (camera/record audio) at any time without your confirmation."

This in no way states that the user will be "asked" permission before the audio or video are turned on.

This is the exact same verbiage as the Chrom update, which is a known PRISM spying app.

Can we please get an explanation that appears logical?

Tuesday5

more options

android won't ask you for permission anymore, but firefox will each time: for a demo visit https://apprtc.appspot.com