France Information & Data Privacy Regulator Questions Legality of Worldcoin Biometric Data Collection
France Information & Data Privacy Regulator Questions Legality of Worldcoin Biometric Data Collection
The France’s privacy watchdog, Commission Nationale de l'Informatique et des Libertés (CNIL) has raised concerns about the legality of Worldcoin’s biometric data collection.
Worldcoin, a Cayman Island-based entity, founded by Sam Altman, requires users to provide their iris scans in exchange for a digital ID and free cryptocurrency in certain countries. The company claims to have already signed up 2.1 million people, mostly through a trial phase over the past two years.
To facilitate registration and data collection, Worldcoin has set up various registration sites around the world where individuals can have their faces scanned using a glowing spherical ‘orb.’
However, CNIL has expressed doubts about the legality of such data collection practices. CNIL stated that, “the legality of this collection seems questionable, as are the conditions for storing biometric data.”
CNIL has launched its probe into the matter and has discovered that the Bavarian state authority in Germany has jurisdiction over the case. The Bavarian authority, with the support of CNIL, is currently conducting the investigation.
Retaliating to the issue raised by CNIL, Worldcoin Foundation emphasized its commitment to individual privacy and regulatory compliance. The foundation stated that it has implemented robust privacy measures and is dedicated to meeting all legal requirements related to personal data processing.
The foundation claimed to comply with all laws and regulations regarding the processing of personal data in the markets where Worldcoin is available.
Moreover, the foundation expressed its willingness to cooperate with governing bodies on requests for more information regarding privacy and data protection practices.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the project is supervised by the Bavarian State Office for Data Protection Supervision within the European Union.
Notably, Britain’s data watchdog has also announced plans to make inquiries into Worldcoin following its launch.
