The National Data Protection Commission (CNPD) of Portugal has issued a statement declaring a temporary restriction on Worldcoin's collection of biometric data in the country through its Orb device. This decision aims to safeguard the rights of citizens, particularly minors, and will remain in effect until the investigation initiated on March 8 is concluded.
Worldcoin utilizes its Orb device to scan individuals' irises, generating a digital ID and its proprietary cryptocurrency. The company, founded by Sam Altman, CEO and co-founder of artificial intelligence developer OpenAI, has garnered significant attention, boasting over 4.5 million sign-ups across 120 countries. In Portugal alone, approximately 300,000 individuals have provided biometric data for the project.
The CNPD's action follows numerous reports indicating that data, particularly from minors, was being collected without proper authorization from parents or legal guardians. In response to these concerns, the CNPD deems the processing of biometric data from minors unlawful and potentially violating GDPR standards. Consequently, the commission views the risk to citizens' fundamental rights as substantial, warranting urgent intervention to prevent severe or irreversible consequences.
To address these issues, Worldcoin announced on March 22 its intention to open source its software and introduce a new "Personal Custody" privacy feature. This feature is designed to empower users with greater control over their data, reflecting the company's commitment to addressing privacy concerns and complying with regulatory standards.
As the investigation unfolds, the CNPD's decision underscores the importance of upholding data protection principles, particularly in the context of emerging technologies that involve sensitive personal information. By taking proactive measures to address regulatory concerns and enhance privacy safeguards, Worldcoin aims to mitigate risks and build trust among users and regulatory authorities alike.
