Hong Kong‘s Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) has initiated an investigation into Worldcoin’s local operations, expressing concerns about serious risks to personal data privacy. The PCPD executed warrants and entered six premises controlled by Worldcoin in Hong Kong, urging residents to consider the implications of sharing biometric data, specifically iris scans.
The commissioner emphasized that any personal data controlled by Worldcoin must be collected for a lawful purpose related to the project’s function or activity. The PCPD is particularly cautious about the sensitive nature of information collected through iris scans, aligning with regulatory guidelines.
Worldcoin, known for its identity verification project, has faced regulatory scrutiny globally. Having started in 2021, the project officially launched in July 2023, attracting over 2 million sign-ups. However, its approach to collecting sensitive personal data has led to service suspensions in Kenya and a pause on iris scans in India.
The PCPD’s investigation adds to the growing concerns surrounding Worldcoin’s privacy practices. Despite its significant user base, which claims over 5 million people as of December 2023, Worldcoin’s operations are under increasing scrutiny by regulators, raising questions about the balance between innovation and safeguarding user privacy.
