Worldcoin Ordered to Delete Iris Scanning Data

Worldcoin Faces Privacy Challenges

Worldcoin, co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has been ordered to delete all iris scanning data collected since the project's inception. This directive comes from Spain's data protection watchdog, AEPD, following a decision by the Bavarian data protection agency, BayLDA. The agencies found Worldcoin in breach of the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

European Regulatory Action

Worldcoin, now rebranded as World, has its European headquarters in Erlangen, Germany. The company aims to establish a global identity system by scanning individuals' irises in exchange for cryptocurrency and a digital ID. However, these ambitions have led to regulatory actions due to privacy concerns.

Legal and Privacy Implications

In March, Spain's High Court supported a temporary ban on the iris-scanning initiative, rejecting an appeal by the project's owners. The recent decision reinforces the need for compliance with stringent data protection laws in the EU.

Future of Worldcoin

Worldcoin's model has raised discussions about privacy and data protection, emphasizing the importance of adhering to GDPR standards. As the company navigates these legal challenges, its future operations in Europe remain under scrutiny. This case highlights the broader implications for tech ventures dealing with biometric data in the region.