Breaking: Worldcoin (WLD) Under Probe by French Regulators

French regulators have reportedly launched an investigation into Worldcoin (WLD), a digital identification platform spearheaded by Sam Altman, co-founder of ChatGPT. The probe comes amidst growing concerns over the Worldcoin project’s biometric data collection.

The Scope of the Worldcoin Investigation

Worldcoin has an ambitious vision to create a digital identity platform that utilizes biometric data, particularly iris scans, to authenticate and empower individuals. Worldcoin has set up sign-up sites across the globe where people can have their faces scanned by a shining spherical “orb.”

Upon approaching the orb, individuals can have their faces scanned to capture biometric data, specifically for iris recognition. This biometric information is used to generate digital IDs, granting users access to free cryptocurrency and services.

While Worldcoin’s approach may appear promising to some, it raises significant privacy and ethical concerns. France’s privacy watchdog, CNIL noted in a Reuters report that the approach “appears questionable, as do the conditions for storing biometric data.” 

CNIL indicated that it launched inquiries and later discovered that the jurisdiction for examining the case comes under that of the Bavarian state authority in Germany. Since then, the Bavarian authorities have taken the lead in the probe, with CNIL assisting. Worldcoin has yet to reply to media requests for comment while the investigations are ongoing.

The regulators’ statement aligns with broader concerns regarding the potential risks of mishandling biometric data. The UK’s data regulator announced this week that it will investigate Worldcoin following its launch.

Similarly, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has also highlighted concerns about potential system abuse and privacy problems.

Privacy and Security Safeguards

The ongoing investigation into Worldcoin’s biometric data collection practices highlights the significance of privacy and data protection in the digital age.

For Worldcoin to gain trust and credibility, it must demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding user privacy and data security. Implementing strong encryption protocols, regular security audits, and data protection mechanisms will be essential to protect the biometric data collected by the orb. 

Furthermore, Worldcoin should establish clear policies for data retention and deletion to minimize risks associated with prolonged data storage.