In a significant move by Spanish regulators, data collection methods deployed by Worldcoin—a crypto project spearheaded by OpenAI’s president—have been scrutinized and subsequently halted. Spanish authorities are challenging the company’s practice of gathering personal details through a high-tech retinal scan. The Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) has swiftly demanded the suspension of such data collection activities and the cessation of usage of the amassed data within Spain.
Immediate Regulatory Response
The AEPD’s decisive action follows concerns over how the technology might affect minors, prompting a call for new age verification measures last year. Worldcoin, which exchanges its own cryptocurrency WLD for permission to perform eye scans, now faces a crucial 72-hour period to adhere to the regulator’s directives.
Global Challenges for Worldcoin
The repercussions of the AEPD’s decision compound the difficulties already faced by Worldcoin co-founders, Max Novendstern and Alex Blania. The company’s growth has been stymied on various fronts, including previously avoiding the launch of WLD in the US and facing operational shutdowns in Kenya.
Furthermore, despite the absence of WLD in significant markets such as China and India, the United Kingdom’s Information Commissioner’s Office has also indicated potential investigative actions against the project. This pattern of regulatory pushback reflects the increased scrutiny faced by digital asset organizations globally.
In light of these developments, the WLD cryptocurrency’s market value has experienced a downturn, with a 12% decrease to a trading price of $6.46. The impact of regulatory decisions on Worldcoin’s operations continues to shape its market presence, illustrating the challenges of innovative technologies interfacing with privacy concerns.