Brazilian data regulator investigates Worldcoin iris-scanning project
Worldcoin launched an iris-scanning project in Brazil in November 2024, compensating participants with cryptocurrency to generate digital identities. The Brazilian data regulator opened an investigation into the project's data collection practices and privacy implications.
What happened
Worldcoin, co-founded by Sam Altman (CEO of OpenAI), launched an iris-scanning project in Brazil in November 2024. The project, which began official operations on November 13, 2024, uses spherical devices called Orbs located at eight collection points in São Paulo to scan people's irises and generate a World ID digital identity. People who participate receive compensation of up to 25 WorldCoins, equivalent to approximately R$ 300.
The Brazilian government requested explanations from Worldcoin regarding the project and opened a regulatory investigation into the iris collection initiative. The investigation was prompted by concerns about the data collection practices and privacy implications of the biometric scanning program.
Reported impact
Privacy advocates raised concerns about the collection and use of iris biometric data without sufficient public understanding of the consequences. The project stores iris scan images to create a numerical code representing iris patterns, raising questions about data security and the long-term use of this sensitive biometric information.
Index analysis
The Worldcoin project presents a case of large-scale biometric data collection with potential privacy and surveillance implications. The collection of iris scans, which are highly unique biometric identifiers, without comprehensive regulatory oversight or explicit data protection measures raises concerns about mission creep and unauthorized use.
Governance controls
The Brazilian data regulator's investigation indicates a gap in governance and oversight prior to the project's deployment. The regulatory response came after the project began operations, suggesting inadequate pre-deployment review of the biometric collection initiative.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.