14 DAY TRIAL // On Thursday, the Japanese National Police Agency urged Internet service providers (ISPs) to block the use of Tor (The Onion Router) in an effort to prevent the online anonymity system from being abused by criminals.
Civil rights groups have immediately responded, saying that they oppose the measure. Now, Anonymous hackers have also issued a statement.
“Tor is merely a tool, and like all tools, it can be used both responsibly and irresponsibly,” the hacktivists said.
“The truth is, the TOR network helps people in repressive countries, such as Tibet, bypass censorship and communicate with the outside world. It helps whistleblowers safely expose unethical behaviour by powerful people. Tor can and is used every day for noble ends.”
The hackers say that blocking Tor “reduces the options for people in repressive regimes.” In addition, they claim the measure would “rob” people of a legitimate tool which they use to protect their privacy.
As such, Anonymous urges civil rights groups and Internet freedom activists to make public statements denouncing the Japanese Police’s recommendations. On the other hand, they urge the NPA to try to adapt, instead of trying to “stamp out” what they don’t understand.