Despite a promising start, Worldcoin faces major ethical and legal issues due to its collection of biometric data. Faced with these controversial practices, the French authorities are stepping up their vigilance to protect the privacy of citizens. Could France ban Worldcoin from its territory?
In short
- The CNIL inspects Worldcoin’s Paris offices.
- Worldcoin faces controversy for its collection of biometric data.
- The project has registered 2.1 million users to date.
Increased surveillance: the CNIL searches Worldcoin’s Parisian premises.
The National Commission for Information Technology and Liberties (CNIL), responsible for implementing French laws relating to the protection of personal data, particularly in terms of collection, storage and use, has carried out “controls » in the Parisian premises of Worldcoin.
According to Reuters, this approach takes place in a context where regulation is tightening around the WLD cryptocurrency and associated technologies. Worldcoin, targeted by this controlis often in the spotlight due to its method of collecting biometric data, including scanning its users’ iris.
It should be noted that the CNIL had already expressed, last July, reservations concerning the legality, considered “questionable”, of such approaches.
Between technological innovation, crypto and ethical dilemmas
Since its launch a few months ago, Worldcoin has been at the center of discussions. This innovative project, co-created by the CEO of OpenAI, is attracting crowds. People are lured by the promise of receiving WRLD, the project’s native token, in exchange for a simple scan of their iris.
At the heart of Worldcoin lies the concept of “World ID”. It is in fact a digital identity, obtained by scanning one’s eye. And as a thank you, each new registrant receives WLD tokens.
However, this method is debated. Several jurisdictions express doubts about the legality and ethics of such collection of biometric data. In France, as in many other countries, we perceive biometric data as being very sensitive, on the same level as our medical history. The legislative framework surrounding their conservation is rigorous, reflecting strict regulations on their use.
Despite a great start, Worldcoin is today facing major challenges. Although innovative, its method of data collection remains controversial, both ethically and legally. These controversies notably led to his expulsion to Kenya.
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