Due to data protection concerns, Spain has banned the Worldcoin crypto project from collecting further biometric data. In addition, OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman’s company may not use the information that has already been collected, data protection authority AEPD announced on Wednesday. The reason is complaints about a lack of transparency, the collection of data from minors and a lack of option to withdraw consent for data processing.
The ban applies immediately and initially for a maximum of three months. This is necessary to prevent “potentially irreparable damage” to users. The Financial Times previously reported on the decision.
Worldcoin could not immediately be reached for comment. According to previous statements, biometric data is deleted or stored in encrypted form. In addition, people are obliged to cooperate with the authorities.
Cryptocurrency and digital ID
Worldcoin is not only a cryptocurrency but also aims to provide users with a counterfeit-proof digital ID. For this purpose, interested parties must have their eyes scanned in special registration centers.
So far, more than four million people in 120 countries have used it. The processing of sensitive biometric data has long been a thorn in the side of data protection officials. In some states, Worldcoin had to close its registration centers again or not open them at all.
Source: Krone
I’m Ben Stock, a journalist and author at Today Times Live. I specialize in economic news and have been working in the news industry for over five years. My experience spans from local journalism to international business reporting. In my career I’ve had the opportunity to interview some of the world’s leading economists and financial experts, giving me an insight into global trends that is unique among journalists.
