Worldcoin Faces Probe in Colombia Over Alleged Data Violations
CryptoNewsTerminal Staff22 Aug, 2024
Worldcoin Faces Probe in Colombia Over Alleged Data Violations
Colombia's Ministry of Industry and Commerce (SIC) has launched an investigation into Worldcoin, a startup that aims to create a global digital identity system, over alleged violations of privacy regulations. The probe, announced on July 22, will determine whether Worldcoin and its developer tools firm, Tools For Humanity, breached the country's data protection regime while collecting personal information. According to SIC, the investigation focuses on the companies' methods for gathering sensitive personal information, including biometric data and eye scans. If found guilty, Worldcoin could face penalties ranging from suspension of operations to a complete shutdown. In May, Worldcoin announced its expansion of its World ID verification service to Colombia. The move drew attention to the company's data collection practices and sparked concerns among privacy advocates. The SIC's investigation underscores the growing scrutiny of data collection and privacy practices in the digital age. As companies seek to gather information for various purposes, regulators are stepping up efforts to ensure that such practices comply with applicable laws and safeguard individuals' privacy rights.
