The Tor Project has recently removed a number of network relays due to their involvement in a cryptocurrency scheme, posing a threat to users. Tor network relays, essential for anonymizing internet traffic, are typically operated by global volunteers supporting online privacy and freedom of information.
The decision to remove these relays initiated a community debate on relay policies, violations, and incentivization models, highlighting the Tor Project’s commitment to network integrity and user safety. The project emphasized that the cryptocurrency scheme was operated by third parties without endorsement, as it was deemed harmful to the Tor network.
Tor Project maintainers identified operators engaging in a for-profit financial scheme, enticing users with promises of monetary gains through cryptocurrency tokens. The removal of these relays aimed to address concerns about the network’s integrity, the reputation of the Tor Project, and the potential risks associated with financial schemes attracting individuals with malicious intent.
The Tor Project engaged with relay operators during their assessment, discovering instances where operators lacked awareness of the project they were contributing to or were operating relays in unsafe regions. Ultimately, the decision to remove these relays was proposed to directory authorities, who voted in favor of their removal.
While the announcement did not name the entity operating the relays, sources indicate that the servers were associated with the ATOR project. ATOR seeks to empower decentralized internet relay operators through on-chain rewards, facilitating the broader provision of open and anonymous protocols through hardware.
The Tor Project’s actions underscore its commitment to maintaining the integrity and security of the Tor network, as well as its dedication to fostering a community that prioritizes privacy and information freedom.
