Gearbox Software responds to worries about spyware in Borderlands 4
Gearbox Software recently addressed fan concerns over Take-Two Interactive’s updated terms of service, which included allegations about spyware being involved in Borderlands 4.
On September 11, 2025, the official Borderlands account posted a clarification on Steam, aiming to uphold transparency and trust with the game's community. Gearbox categorically denied rumors suggesting Borderlands 4 contains spyware for data collection by its parent company, Take-Two Interactive.
The post stated, "Take-Two does not use spyware in its games," emphasizing that the privacy policy is consistent across all its labels, studios, platforms, and services, encompassing consoles, PCs, mobile apps, and websites.
The post further explained that although the privacy policy delineates potential data activities, this does not imply uniform data collection across every game or service. They clarified that the aim is to maintain openness and adhere to legal responsibilities. Collected information is primarily used to enhance game services, safeguard the gaming ecosystem, and enrich players' experiences.
These community concerns over Take-Two Interactive’s terms were sparked when updates were made to the End User License Agreements (EULAs) for the Borderlands series in February 2025. This followed Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox Software in March 2024, as noted by GamesIndustry.biz.
The updates incited a backlash where the series was review-bombed on Steam amid misinformation about its implications for players and modders. Discussions in the forums along with a YouTube video titled "Take Two Spies On Borderlands Players" added fuel to the fire.
Beyond addressing spyware allegations, Gearbox also illuminated aspects of modding policies. The terms prohibit mods that confer unfair advantages, disrupt the gaming experience for others, or grant unauthorized content access. Gearbox clarified that Take-Two generally refrains from targeting mods that are single-player, non-commercial, and respect intellectual property rights.