Borderlands 4 Developer Addresses Spyware Concerns and Promises Transparency

Gearbox Software has moved to alleviate concerns raised by fans regarding the terms of service of its parent company, Take-Two Interactive, specifically addressing rumors that Borderlands 4 may contain spyware to gather personal player data. On September 11, 2025, the official Borderlands account published a statement on Steam aimed at addressing recent community concerns and maintaining open communication. The developer categorically denied allegations that Borderlands 4 includes spyware, emphasizing that Take-Two Interactive does not employ spyware in any of its games. The company's privacy policy, which applies universally across its labels, studios, and services, outlines potential data collection practices for transparency and legal compliance. According to Gearbox Software, the data collected is utilized to enhance player experiences, including ensuring game compatibility and personalizing in-game elements such as usernames. Concerns among fans surfaced following the update of the Borderlands series' End User License Agreements (EULAs) in February 2025, subsequent to Take-Two Interactive's acquisition of Gearbox Software in March 2024. This led to a review bombing on Steam, with misinformation spreading about the implications of the updated terms for players and modders. In addition to addressing spyware concerns, Gearbox Software provided clarification on its stance on mods. The company's terms of service prohibit mods that confer unfair advantages, negatively impact other users' experiences, or provide unauthorized access to content. However, it generally does not take action against single-player, non-commercial mods that respect intellectual property rights.