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Firefox 50 wants to install "new helper tool" , what is it?

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  • Last reply by PLBK

PLBK
PLBK
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I downloaded Firefox 50 via the built in update. When I hit restart to install the update, I get a window saying that Firefox wants to install a "new helper tool" and that I need to enter an admin password to complete the update. I can't find anything about this "helper tool" in the release notes or through a google search. I was wondering just what is it? Running OSX 10.11.16. Thanks.

I downloaded Firefox 50 via the built in update. When I hit restart to install the update, I get a window saying that Firefox wants to install a "new helper tool" and that I need to enter an admin password to complete the update. I can't find anything about this "helper tool" in the release notes or through a google search. I was wondering just what is it? Running OSX 10.11.16. Thanks.

Chosen solution

http://www.ghacks.net/2016/11/04/application-update-service-helper/

What the aushelper@mozilla.org extension is for.

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All Replies (6)

Paul
Paul
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Hi

I am not aware of this. Subject to any provided screenshots, I would suggest that this could be potentially unwanted software trying to be be installed by a third party.

PLBK
PLBK Question owner
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Here is a screenshot of the pop-up. The download came through the built in updater on Firefox.

the-edmeister
the-edmeister
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I have seen - aushelper@mozialla.com - listed on the Extensions page in a few Crash Reports I have. I have no idea what that extension is used for; but installing "mozilla" extensions seems to be coming the norm this year - don't ask the user just install it and don't provide a remove button.

James
James
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Chosen Solution

http://www.ghacks.net/2016/11/04/application-update-service-helper/

What the aushelper@mozilla.org extension is for.

the-edmeister
the-edmeister
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Thanks James.

PLBK
PLBK Question owner
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James, thank you. Very informative.