GDPR Compliance Risk

Firefox is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Firefox

🇺🇸Firefox · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Firefox is a robust web browser developed in the United States, designed to provide users with a secure and customizable browsing experience. It offers enhanced tracking protection to safeguard your privacy by blocking unwanted trackers and scripts. With a built-in password manager, Firefox ensures your credentials are stored securely, making it easier to manage your online accounts. The browser also supports picture-in-picture video, allowing you to multitask efficiently. Firefox's tab grouping feature helps keep your browsing organized, while the integrated screenshot tool makes capturing and sharing content seamless. Multi-account containers allow users to separate their online identities, enhancing privacy and security. Firefox is particularly suitable for privacy-conscious users, tech enthusiasts, and anyone who values a secure browsing environment. It is compliant with EU data protection regulations, ensuring that user data is hosted within the EU, offering advantages in data sovereignty and GDPR compliance. Firefox is free to download and use, with optional premium services available for users seeking additional features.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Firefox

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Firefox has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.

While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.

For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based web browsers is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Firefox, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Firefox, even if servers are located in Europe.

GDPR Fine Risk

Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.

EU Alternative Available

2 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.

2 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Firefox

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

LibreWolf

🇪🇺

by LibreWolf

LibreWolf is a privacy-focused web browser designed to offer users a secure and private browsing experience. Built on open-source principles and driven by a dedicated community, LibreWolf prioritizes user privacy with enhanced tracking protection, automatic cookie blocking, and DNS over HTTPS support. It is tailored for individuals who value their online privacy and seek to minimize their digital footprint. Key features include fingerprinting protection, customizable security settings, and the integration of privacy-focused search engines. LibreWolf stands out by not collecting telemetry data, ensuring that user information remains private and secure. Hosted in Europe, it complies with EU data protection regulations, offering users the assurance of GDPR compliance and data sovereignty. While LibreWolf is free to use, its community-driven nature encourages contributions and support from its user base. Ideal for privacy-conscious users, LibreWolf provides a robust alternative to mainstream browsers, focusing on transparency and user control.

GDPR CompliantOpen SourceEU-hosted

freeMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

LibreWolf blocks all third-party cookies by default, enhancing privacy.
No telemetry data collection ensures your browsing habits remain private.
Built-in fingerprinting protection reduces tracking by advertisers.

Consider

Migration may require reconfiguring extensions and settings manually.
Some Firefox features like multi-account containers are not available.

View Details Compare Switch Guide

Visit LibreWolf

Vivaldi

🇳🇴

by Vivaldi

It’s a web browser. But fun. It comes with a bunch of clever features built-in. It’s super flexible and does not track you. Get the Vivaldi browser for desktop, mobile, and your car!

EU-BasedOpen SourceGDPR Compliant

freeMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

Vivaldi's built-in ad blocker can improve page load times significantly.
Vivaldi allows tab stacking, organizing multiple tabs in a single group.
End-to-end encryption for syncing across devices enhances data security.

Consider

Vivaldi's learning curve may be steep for users accustomed to Firefox.
Missing features like Firefox's multi-account containers can limit privacy.

View Details Compare Switch Guide

Visit Vivaldi

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

Service	HQ Location	GDPR Native	EU Data Centers	CLOUD Act Free	Pricing
🇺🇸Firefox	United States	No	Partial	No	-
🇪🇺LibreWolf	EU	Yes	Yes	Yes	free
🇳🇴Vivaldi	NO	Yes	Yes	Yes	free

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Firefox GDPR compliant?

Firefox is a US-based service operated by Firefox. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.

What are the GDPR risks of using Firefox?

The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.

What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Firefox?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Firefox include LibreWolf, Vivaldi. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from Firefox to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Firefox using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Can EU companies legally use Firefox?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Firefox. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.

Other GDPR Alternatives in Web Browsers

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Migration Resources

Last updated: January 25, 2026