The Tor Project, the organisation behind the popular privacy-oriented Tor Browser, has announced that it has had to make staff cuts due to the financial pressure it is under due to coronavirus. The organisation said that it was “terribly sad” to let go of 13 employees and will now move forward with a core team of 22 people.

The non-profit disclosed how its finances had been interrupted by COVID-19 but several entities became former sponsors this year and last which could have influenced the decision. Alternatively, as more people around the world tighten their belts, it could have seen a drop-off in donations from the public.

Reflecting on the decision and its future, the organisation said:

“The world won’t be the same after this crisis, and the need for privacy and secure access to information will become more urgent. In these times, being online is critical and many people face ongoing obstacles to getting and sharing needed information. We are taking today’s difficult steps to ensure the Tor Project continues to exist and our technology stays available.”

Despite the lay-offs, The Tor Project has re-assured users that its privacy tools will continue to be developed ensuring that those who need them can maintain their privacy and security.