Worldcoin Changes Data Collection Methods in Chile Following Legal Challenges
Tools For Humanity, the operator of Worldcoin (WLD), is adjusting its data collection practices in Chile in response to legal issues. According to Criptonoticias, the firm will now prohibit minors from providing biometric data in exchange for WLD tokens.
Astrid Vasconcellos, the head of communications and marketing for Tools For Humanity Latin America, stated that the company has made modifications to its operations in light of criticism and controversy. Worldcoin established its presence in Chile last July, with significant interest across the country.
Reports emerged of long lines at iris-scanning centers in Chile, prompting backlash from legal professionals over the use of Orb scanners by teenagers. This has stirred controversy within the nation, leading to a case being filed at the Santiago Court of Appeals by lawyer Rodrigo Lagos after his daughter underwent iris scanning without parental consent.
International scrutiny and privacy concerns surrounding Worldcoin have also attracted attention from watchdogs and politicians in Europe, Africa, and Asia, as well as calls for regulations in Latin America. In response, Chilean authorities began monitoring the company in April to ensure transparency in data usage.
To address these concerns, Worldcoin is enhancing its age and ID verification procedures at its centers in Santiago de Chile, Valparaiso, Rancagua, and Concepción. Vasconcellos clarified that the company does not retain iris images but stores individual iris codes, which are automatically deleted after scanning.
Acknowledging the complexities of the Worldcoin project, Vasconcellos admitted that the company may have contributed to the confusion surrounding its operations. Despite ongoing pushback globally, Tools For Humanity recently saw success in Kenya when police halted an investigation into its centers.
