Worldcoin’s Controversy: French Privacy Watchdog Investigates Ambitious Project

Key Points:

• French privacy watchdog CNIL investigates Sam Altman’s Worldcoin project over the legality of its biometric data collection, raising concerns about storing such data.
• Worldcoin requires users to provide iris scans for a digital ID and offers free cryptocurrency in certain countries, attracting 2.1 million users in a trial period.
• The project’s unique ID system aims to combat online identity fraud and income inequality, but regulatory scrutiny and investigations in Germany could impact its future.

On Friday, France’s privacy watchdog, CNIL, made public its awareness of Sam Altman’s Worldcoin project and expressed concern over the legality of its biometric data collection.

The ambitious venture launched just days ago, has been a topic of controversy in Silicon Valley due to its unorthodox approach to tackling online identity authentication and income inequality.

Worldcoin‘s concept requires users to provide their iris scans in exchange for a digital ID, and in some countries, they receive free cryptocurrency as well. The platform claims to have already registered 2.1 million participants, primarily through a two-year trial period.

At the core of Worldcoin’s proposition lies “Tools for Humanity,” the company behind the project. According to insiders, Altman has used AI advancements as a compelling incentive to attract investors. As the value of the Worldcoin token, dubbed “WLD,” appreciates, it promises to yield substantial returns for Altman and other stakeholders.

The process of acquiring a unique Worldcoin ID involves scanning users’ irises using a specialized device called “The Orb.” This biometric data collection aims to distinguish real individuals from bots, a critical concern given the rise of large language models like ChatGPT. Additionally, it could play a crucial role in mitigating fraud when governments contemplate implementing “universal basic income” programs.

While the project has attracted attention worldwide, it has also raised red flags with regulatory authorities. The British data regulator announced earlier this week that it would be investigating Worldcoin following its recent launch.

In response to inquiries from Reuters, CNIL expressed reservations about the legitimacy of Worldcoin’s biometric data collection and storage practices. The French watchdog has initiated its own investigation but has discovered that the Bavarian state authority in Germany holds jurisdiction over the matter. Subsequently, the Bavarian authority has taken the lead in the investigation, with support from CNIL.

As the situation unfolds, Worldcoin’s future hinges on the resolution of these investigations and compliance with privacy and data protection regulations in various countries. The novel approach to solving complex issues is a double-edged sword, and its success will be closely monitored by both investors and authorities alike.

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