Worldcoin has decided to extend the suspension of its operations in Spain until the end of 2024 or until a General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance audit is finalized. Tools for Humanity, the organization behind Worldcoin, made the voluntary decision to prolong the pause on orb operations in Spain to allow BayLDA, the regulatory authority overseeing GDPR compliance, to conduct a thorough audit.
The audit, led by BayLDA in Bavaria, is focused on ensuring that Worldcoin’s activities adhere to the data protection regulations set by the European Union. The suspension includes the use of Worldcoin orbs, which are devices used to scan users’ irises to create digital identities.
Worldcoin has come under scrutiny from various government agencies due to concerns about the safeguarding of personal data. The Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) initially ordered the suspension of Worldcoin’s operations in March 2024 in response to these concerns.
Despite the challenges, Worldcoin has taken steps to address privacy and security issues. These measures include enhanced age verification controls, converting old iris codes into SMPC shares, and providing users with the option to unverify their World ID and delete iris codes. This demonstrates Worldcoin’s commitment to cooperation and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
A recent survey conducted among World ID users in Spain revealed that over 80% of the 21,000 respondents believe that technologies like World ID are essential for distinguishing between bots and humans online. Additionally, nearly 90% of respondents expressed their support for Worldcoin’s return to Spain.
The survey, carried out through the World App in May, included over 21,000 verified users from diverse backgrounds. Tools for Humanity’s Chief Legal Officer, Thomas Scott, emphasized the importance of user feedback in shaping Worldcoin’s future operations and stated that the organization willingly extended the suspension of orb operations in Spain in response to user preferences.
For the latest updates, follow us on Google News.
