The National Data Protection Commission (CNPD) of Portugal has taken a temporary measure to restrict Worldcoin’s collection of biometric data through its Orb devices within the country. This decision aims to protect the rights of Portuguese citizens, particularly minors. The restriction will be in effect until the conclusion of an investigation that was initiated on March 8.
Worldcoin, founded by Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, operates by scanning individuals’ irises using its Orb devices in exchange for a digital ID and its own cryptocurrency. The company claims to have over 4.5 million users from 120 countries, with 300,000 people in Portugal already providing their biometric data for the project.
The CNPD’s decision comes after numerous reports of data collection from minors without proper authorization from parents or legal authorities. Paula Meira Lourenço, president of the CNPD, described the measure as “indispensable and justified” in safeguarding fundamental rights, especially those of minors.
This incident adds to a series of complaints from regulators worldwide. Despite pressure from the United States, Kenya’s government maintains its ban on the Worldcoin project. Similarly, legal authorities in Spain have ordered Worldcoin to cease its activities due to complaints from users unable to withdraw consent and allegations of data collection from minors.
However, Worldcoin released a statement on March 18, asserting that it operates in full compliance with the law in all available locations. They also announced on March 22 that they would open-source their software and introduce a new “personal custody” privacy feature to give users greater control over their data.