Worldcoin Faces Global Scrutiny Over Biometric Data Collection
Worldcoin, a crypto initiative co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and launched in July, is being scrutinized by an increasing number of governments around the world.
Globally, around 2.3 million people have signed up to have their irises scanned by Worldcoin’s “orb” devices in exchange for a digital ID and free cryptocurrency.
Altman claims that its ID will enable people to verify online that they are human, particularly in a future world controlled by artificial intelligence.
Privacy activists have criticized Worldcoin for collecting personal information. It has stated that the biometric data is either erased or encrypted and that it is “committed” to cooperating with regulators.
Here is the most recent information on government action:
ARGENTINA
In Argentina, where Worldcoin claims there is a lot of interest in the project, the Agencia de Acceso an Informacion Publica (AAIP) data regulator announced last month that it was looking into Worldcoin’s acquisition, storage, and use of personal data.
In an Aug. 7 letter, the AAIP requested information regarding the initiative, including risk mitigation and the “legal basis for the processing of personal data.”
BRITAIN
The UK’s data regulator announced in July that it would investigate theWorldcoin.
“We note the launch of Worldcoin in the UK and will be making further enquiries,” the Information Commissioner’s Office stated.
FRANCE
According to a spokeswoman for France’s privacy authority CNIL, “checks” were conducted at Worldcoin’s Paris office this week.
CNIL earlier stated that it was aware of the Worldcoin initiative and that the legality of its biometric data collecting “seems doubtful.”
GERMANY
According to the report, a German data authority has been investigating Worldcoin since late last year due to worries about its large-scale processing of sensitive biometric data.
According to the German business daily Handelsblatt, financial regulator Bafin is also looking into the digital currency.
KENYA
Kenya stopped Worldcoin’s local operations in August while the government evaluates potential hazards to public safety.
According to the Communications Authority of Kenya and the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, a preliminary evaluation indicated issues, including seeking customer agreement in exchange for a monetary prize bordered on enticement.
PORTUGAL
According to a spokeswoman, the CNPD, Portugal’s data regulator, has reviewed Worldcoin’s local data-gathering operation and is in contact with the Bavarian data protection authorities in Germany.
The CNPD stated that the findings of their investigation would be made public “in due course.”
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