France watchdog is investigating Worldcoin’s data collection

France’s privacy watchdog reportedly questions Worldcoin’s biometric data collection.
Worldcoin, created by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, launched on Monday.
Users have to scan their irises to get a World ID and crypto token WLD.

IIn latest crypto news, France’s privacy watchdog is reportedly examining legal issues around recently launched Worldcoin (WLD), particularly its biometric data collection.

According to a Reuters report on July 28, the Commission nationale de l’informatique et des libertés (CNIL), had indicated it has questions over Worldcoin’s requirements that include users scan their irises using an orb.

The CNIL has said it opened investigations after Worldcoin collected data from users in France, per details published in the Reuters report.

Worldcoin offers access to a digital ID and free cryptocurrency (in countries where regulation allows) to people who sign up to a “proof of personhood.” Data shows the project created by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has seen increased sign ups since its launch on Monday.

The project says one unique person is scanning their eyeballs for the World ID every 7.6 seconds.

Since Worldcoin launched, proof of personhood demand has surged. On average, a unique human is now verifying their World ID every 7.6 seconds & new records are being set daily.

Thank you for your patience with the project as more work is done to better meet worldwide demand. pic.twitter.com/gPmr0oQWCR

— Worldcoin (@worldcoin) July 28, 2023

France’s action comes days after the UK’s The Information Commissioner’s Office also announced it was looking into Worldcoin.