hi, this is a scam tactic that is trying to trick you into installing malware, so don't download or execute this kind of stuff just because of a popup or redirect on a website! updates are handled automatically by firefox so you don't have to download anything for that (and you can always initiate a manual check for updates in the firefox menu ≡ > help ? > about firefox).

we suspect this is coming form "malvertising" (=ads placed on legitimate websites that redirect you to this fraudulent message), so using an adblocking addon like https://addons.mozilla.org/firefox/addon/ublock-origin/ would also help with that.

I found a fake Firefox update

Separate Security Issue: Update your Flash Player Note: Windows users should download the active_x for Internet Explorer. and the plugin for Plugin-based browsers (like Firefox).

Note: Windows 8 and Windows 10 have built-in flash players and Adobe will cause a conflict. Install the plugin only. Not the active_x.

Flash Player Version: 24.0.0.194

https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/ Direct link scans current system and browser Note: Other software is offered in the download. <Windows Only>

https://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/otherversions/ Step 1: Select Operating System Step 2: Select A Version (Firefox, Win IE . . . .) Note: Other software is offered in the download. <Windows Only>

See if there are updates for your graphics drivers https://support.mozilla.org/kb/upgrade-graphics-drivers-use-hardware-acceleration

Well, I know it's not coming from a website because I only had Amazon open as you can see from my tabs. However, it could be from the flash player. If the malware is already in the browser, can I remove it in some way manually? Perhaps a specific folder?

we are fairly positive that this is triggered by something embedded in a website and not some malicious software that is already active on your local system. if you right-click on the back-button on the screenshot you see which page you were directed from - usually it's some JS embedded there through ad networks triggering this fake prompt...

Ad / mal-ware. Further information can be found in the Troubleshoot Firefox issues caused by malware article.

Run most or all of the listed malware scanners. Each works differently. If one program misses something, another may pick it up.

KesilConsulting said

It's obviously spam, but I have no idea how to remove it. I believe the URL is the same each time this happens.

Actually the url of the fake urgent Firefox update page changes almost everyday as they are being used by the scammers in a disposable fashion.

a more recent list of these reported sites is at https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/forums/contributors/712056

FredMcD said

Ad / mal-ware. Further information can be found in the Troubleshoot Firefox issues caused by malware article. Run most or all of the listed malware scanners. Each works differently. If one program misses something, another may pick it up.

This has never been determined to be caused by any malware on Windows. Though it is not a bad idea to scan Windows anyways.

James said

a more recent list of these reported sites is at https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/forums/contributors/712056

This tells you what to do when there is a problem. No site list.

FredMcD said

James said

a more recent list of these reported sites is at https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/forums/contributors/712056

This tells you what to do when there is a problem. No site list.

FredMcD, scroll down my first post of the thread a bit as there is a rather long list of sites that I found posted about on this forum and list them.

Unless you thought I meant something else entirely.