Portugal Suspends Worldcoin Cryptocurrency Over Data Privacy Concerns for Minors

Portugal's Data Protection Commission (CNDP) has temporarily halted the Worldcoin cryptocurrency project in the country due to data privacy concerns, particularly for minors. The suspension, which will last for three months, follows an investigation into the project's collection of iris scans in exchange for cryptocurrency tokens. Over 300,000 people in Portugal had their irises scanned before the suspension.

Portugal Raises Data Privacy Concerns for Minors, Suspends Worldcoin Cryptocurrency Project

What's the Deal with Worldcoin and Kids?

Portuguese authorities have hit the pause button on Worldcoin, the cryptocurrency project backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, after expressing concerns about data privacy for minors. The Data Protection Commission (CNDP) has slapped a three-month suspension on the project while it investigates, citing a need to protect the fundamental rights of children.

How the Iris Scanner Fits In

Worldcoin's setup is unusual—users get their irises scanned to establish a private digital identity. Portugal claims over 300,000 people have already had their peepers scanned in exchange for a piece of the Worldcoin pie.

Spain Was First to Sound the Alarm

Spain's data protection agency had already raised concerns, ordering the company to temporarily halt its operations. The complaints revolved around collecting data from minors without proper consent or an easy way for them to withdraw their approval.

What Does Worldcoin Have to Say for Itself?

OpenAI maintains that user data is safe and sound within the crypto project. They say users can delete or encrypt their data if they want.

What Type of Data Does Worldcoin Collect?

According to Worldcoin's website, they steer clear of personal data like names, phone numbers, and addresses during the sign-up process. Instead, they focus on verifying each user's uniqueness to prevent double-dipping.