Worldcoin Pilots Facial Recognition for Enhanced Security

Worldcoin has introduced a new facial recognition feature, Face Auth, within its World App digital wallet.

In a statement yesterday, the organization said that the feature allows “a private 1:1 face comparison that ensures only the person who verified their World ID at an orb can” access the World App. The addition aims to increase security for users, particularly for functions like “online purchases, financial transactions, [and] secure sign-in applications.”

Introducing Face Auth, even more security for your World ID 🫡 pic.twitter.com/3OJ4s7lABp
— Worldcoin (@worldcoin) September 19, 2024

The World App, which currently has nearly 15 million users globally, is used by individuals to store, send, and receive Worldcoin’s WLD token. Approximately 6.7 million people have officially verified their identity using the project’s iris-scanning technology — a prerequisite for obtaining a World ID. The primary developer behind this project, Tools for Humanity, was co-founded by Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI.

Face Auth, piloted in select locations, adds facial recognition to the existing iris-scanning verification system. However, this has raised concerns about biometric data collection and storage implications. Although Worldcoin plans to make the technology open-source, some fear this could lead to further challenges in managing sensitive user data.

Despite efforts to ensure privacy, Worldcoin has faced criticism in certain jurisdictions. Last month, Colombia’s regulatory agency accused the project of violating the country’s data protection regime.

In response to growing privacy concerns, Worldcoin recently halted storing and encrypting biometric data. The project has stated that biometric data is only used for identity verification when creating a World ID and is not stored afterward.

Meanwhile, the organization continues to operate in markets such as Korea and Germany. In Spain, humanness verification services were temporarily paused earlier this year. The company has also announced plans to open-source its technology for transparency.

Lawrence does not hold any crypto asset. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The Shib Magazine and The Shib Daily are the official media and publications of the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency project. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.

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