The Spanish Agency for the Protection of Data (AEPD) has issued a temporary order to Worldcoin, a product/service developed by Tools for Humanity, to cease the collection and processing of data in Spain. The order, which was issued on March 6, will be in effect for three months. The AEPD is currently investigating complaints that users in Spain are unable to withdraw consent and that Worldcoin has collected data from minors.
Worldcoin, according to its white paper, aims to establish a globally inclusive identity and financial network that is owned by the majority of humanity. Its ultimate goal is to provide a potential path to AI-funded universal basic income. Tools for Humanity was founded by Sam Altman, the co-founder and CEO of OpenAI.
This recent injunction by the Spanish authorities follows an investigation conducted by Hong Kong’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) just over a month ago. In January, the PCPD executed search warrants on Worldcoin offices in Hong Kong due to concerns over data privacy.
The controversy surrounding Worldcoin revolves around its use of biometric scanning devices called “orbs.” Users are required to download an app and visit a facility with an orb, where their eye is scanned for verification. As the human iris is unique to each individual, this method of biometric verification is considered more accurate than other identification techniques such as fingerprinting.
Once verified, user identities are linked to their unique biometric data, which can be independently verified using Worldcoin’s services. Users who activate their accounts in the WorldApp application receive a payment in Worldcoin’s WLD token.
According to Tools for Humanity, as of March 5, 2024, Worldcoin has 4 million verified users.