Michaela
The Kenyan High Court has ordered Sam Altman’s global cryptocurrency, World (formerly Worldcoin), to halt the processing, collection, and handling of biometric data until a Data Protection Impact Assessment is conducted.
The May 5 ruling mandates that World permanently delete biometric data collected in Kenya without proper assessments within seven days. Additionally, the court has prohibited the company from enticing users with cryptocurrency offers and suggested that its actions may have violated Section 31 of the Data Protection Act.
In an X post, the Katiba Institute, an advocacy group that challenged World’s activities, announced that Lady Justice Aburili Roselyne issued the ruling. The Kenyan court ruling affirms the stance of the Katiba Institute, which has consistently opposed Worldcoin’s operations.
In August 2023, the Katiba Institute filed a Judicial Review application, taking legal action against the Worldcoin Foundation over the collection, processing, and transfer of biometric data, including iris and facial images, through the Worldcoin App and Orb.
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Indonesia Halts Worldcoin Over Biometric Data and Regulatory Issues
Kenya isn’t the only nation to take action against Altman’s World. Indonesian regulators have also halted the platform’s operations, accusing the blockchain startup of potentially breaching local regulations.
Alexander Sabar, Director General of Digital Space Supervision, stated that the suspension was prompted by reports of “suspicious activity” surrounding the project. “This freezing is a preventive measure to prevent potential risks to the community. We will also summon PT. Terang Bulan Abadi for official clarification in the near future,” Sabar stated.
The official statement claimed that PT Terang Bulan Abadi, the Indonesian subsidiary managing World, failed to register as an Electronic System Organizer (PSE) and lacked the necessary Electronic System Organizer Registration Certificate (TDPSE), which is mandatory under Indonesian law.
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“Worldcoin services are recorded using TDPSE in the name of another legal entity, namely PT. Sandina Abadi Nusantara,” Sabar noted.
Under Indonesia’s Government Regulation No. 71 of 2019 on the Implementation of Electronic Systems and Transactions, and the Minister of Communication and Information’s Regulation No. 10 of 2021 on Private Electronic System Providers, all digital service providers are required to register legally and ensure accountability for their public-facing operations.
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MICHAELA
Michaela is a news writer focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain topics. She prioritizes rigorous research and accuracy to uncover interesting angles and ensure engaging reporting. A lifelong book lover, she applies her passion for reading to deeply explore the constantly evolving crypto world.
