- Violations by Worldcoin and Tools for Humanity
- Consequences for Users
- International Responses to Biometric Scandal
South Korean authorities have imposed a fine of 1.1 billion Korean won (approximately $850,000) on Worldcoin and its partner Tools for Humanity for illegal collection and transfer of biometric data.
Violations by Worldcoin and Tools for Humanity
The Personal Information Protection Commission of South Korea found that Worldcoin and Tools for Humanity illegally collected biometric data from over 30,000 Korean users without proper consent. Additionally, this data was transferred abroad without informing users of the recipient countries or contact details, as required by local laws.
Consequences for Users
The consent form was initially only available in English, limiting users' understanding until a Korean version was released in March 2024. Despite Worldcoin's claim that the data was used solely to prevent duplicate registrations, the commission emphasized that biometric data is inherently unique and directly linked to the individual.
International Responses to Biometric Scandal
The biometric data scandal has drawn the attention of regulatory bodies from India, Hong Kong, and Germany. Singapore has also opened an investigation into individuals suspected of offering buying and selling services related to Worldcoin, but Tools for Humanity has clarified that these suspects are not affiliated with the project.
Despite global regulatory scrutiny, Worldcoin continues its expansion, with some countries like Malaysia showing a more receptive approach to biometric technology innovation.
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