The price of Worldcoin dipped on Friday after news emerged that Kenya has denied a request from the US government to resume operations for the controversial cryptocurrency project.
Kenya Upholds Worldcoin Ban
According to Kenyan media outlets, the country’s Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, informed Parliament that the government will not budge on its August 2023 suspension of Worldcoin. Professor Kindiki reportedly revealed that Kenya has faced pressure from the US to lift the ban during a recent appearance before the National Assembly’s public petitions committee.
Privacy Concerns Spark Ban
The Kenyan government’s initial decision to halt Worldcoin stemmed from growing concerns around user privacy and the need for stricter data protection regulations. A parliamentary committee had previously urged for the project’s immediate suspension to address these anxieties.
Worldcoin’s Global Data Security Struggles
Kenya is not the only nation to raise red flags regarding Worldcoin’s data practices. The project has encountered similar resistance on a global scale:
Spain: The Spanish data protection authority (AEPD) ordered Worldcoin to cease collecting personal information within the country and mandated the deletion of any existing data collected.
South Korea: The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) launched an investigation into Worldcoin following complaints about the collection and use of user data, particularly facial and iris scans.
Hong Kong: The Privacy Commissioner’s Office (PCPD) initiated inquiries at six Worldcoin locations in Hong Kong due to potential privacy risks.
In a recent development, Worldcoin reportedly intends to remove the option for users to encrypt and store their biometric data.
You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.