Mexico's INAI launches investigation into Worldcoin's biometric data practices
Mexico's data protection authority launched an official investigation into Worldcoin in September 2024 over alleged personal data violations. The company collects biometric data including iris scans in exchange for digital currency, and has faced similar regulatory actions in other countries.
What happened
The Instituto Nacional de Transparencia, Acceso a la Información y Protección de Datos Personales (INAI) launched an official investigation into Worldcoin on 8 September 2024 to analyze possible personal data violations by the company.
Worldcoin, operated by Tools for Humanity and cofounded by Sam Altman, collects biometric data including iris scans, fingerprints and facial images from individuals in exchange for digital currency distribution. The project formally launched in Mexico in July 2023.
A company official stated in April 2024 that the platform does not store personally identifiable information and that iris images are deleted after a digital credential is generated, with biometric data stored only as fragmented codes that cannot be reconstructed.
Reported impact
INAI invited all individuals who believe their personal information was violated to file formal complaints.
Index analysis
Worldcoin has been subject to investigations in other countries for violating data collection regulations. Argentina closed centers operated by the company and Spain imposed a provisional ban on iris scanning.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.