Worldcoin Pushback Prompts Tools For Humanity to Revise Data Collection Methods in Chile
Tools For Humanity, the entity behind Worldcoin (WLD), is altering its data collection practices in Chile amidst legal challenges. Criptonoticias, a Spanish-language media outlet, reported that Tools For Humanity will now prohibit minors from providing biometric data in exchange for WLD tokens.
Astrid Vasconcellos, Head of Communications and Marketing for Tools For Humanity Latin America, acknowledged the adjustments, stating they were made in response to criticism and controversy. The initiative, launched in Chile last July, initially saw widespread adoption across various regions of the country.
Legal challenges arose, notably when lawyer Rodrigo Lagos filed a case with the Santiago Court of Appeals in March. The case was prompted by the revelation that his 17-year-old daughter had scanned her iris without parental consent, fueling a national debate.
International scrutiny intensified as Worldcoin’s operations and data privacy practices came under global review. European, African, and Asian watchdogs and politicians intervened, with Latin American lawmakers also calling for regulatory oversight.
In April, Chilean authorities commenced monitoring Tools For Humanity to ensure transparency regarding data usage. Consequently, the firm has implemented mandatory age and ID verification procedures at its Chilean centers, including those in Santiago de Chile, Valparaiso, Rancagua, and Concepción.
Vasconcellos clarified that the company does not retain iris images but securely stores individual iris codes, automatically deleting scanned images. She emphasized their commitment to clarity, ensuring that personal data and iris scans are not cross-referenced.
Despite challenges, Tools For Humanity remains committed to the Worldcoin project’s advancement, acknowledging its complexity and the need for ongoing adaptation. Recent developments include a regulatory probe in the UK and a favorable outcome in Kenya, where local authorities ceased investigations into the company’s operations.
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