Less than a year after its official launch, Worldcoin continues to generate interest and controversy. The project, founded by Sam Altman, offers cryptocurrencies to individuals who scan their iris. Despite being questioned by cybersecurity experts and banned in some areas, Worldcoin operates in Argentina, gaining attention for the quick profits it offers users.
Worldcoin aims to create a global digital identity through iris scans. Users receive cryptocurrency rewards for undergoing this process, which is credited to an application acting as a virtual passport. The project addresses economic inequality and identity verification issues on the internet.
World App, the platform for Worldcoin, integrates with popular apps like Mercado Libre and Telegram. To participate, users must be at least 18 years old and undergo an iris scan at a verification center. The scan is quick, completed by The Orb, a device that reads iris biometrics.
After launching in Argentina, Worldcoin saw a surge in users seeking quick money opportunities. Users receive WLD tokens as a welcome bonus and continue to earn tokens every two weeks. The value of WLD tokens is volatile but can be exchanged for US dollars or Argentine pesos.
Despite the benefits and potential profits, providing biometric data like iris scans comes with risks. Worldcoin states they prioritize privacy and do not monetize user data. However, concerns about data security, potential leaks, and ethical implications remain.
Regulators in Kenya, Spain, and Portugal have ordered investigations into Worldcoin’s data collection practices. In Argentina, complaints have been raised about privacy violations, leading to legal action and investigations by authorities.
As the debate around Worldcoin continues, individuals must weigh the benefits of earning cryptocurrencies against the potential risks of sharing biometric data. Privacy, data security, and ethical considerations are crucial factors to consider in this evolving digital landscape.