An Argentinian lawmaker has introduced a draft bill focused on regulating the operations of Worldcoin and its biometric data collection practices in the country. The bill aims to enhance consumer protection by establishing stricter transparency and oversight for companies like Worldcoin that gather biometric information, specifically through iris-scanning technology.
The popularity of Worldcoin in Argentina, evidenced by its operation of over 50 iris-scanning centers in the country, has led to increased scrutiny. The Buenos Aires assembly has demanded an investigation into the firm, prompted by data privacy worries; and the national data protection agency also initiated inquiries earlier in the year.
If enacted, Carlos Puglelli’s bill would assign the Provincial Directorate for the Defense of the Rights of Consumers and Users to oversee Worldcoin’s operations, ensuring the company adheres to fair and secure consumer relations standards.
The concerns in Argentina are echoed globally, with similar worries expressed by governments in Mexico, Chile, several European countries, and East Asian nations like South Korea and Hong Kong. These countries have also taken steps to investigate or demand compliance from Worldcoin to national data protection regulations.
Ammidst these growing global scrutiny concerning privacy issues, Worldcoin has taken some measures to address such concerns. In Malaysia, where privacy issues have also drawn attention, Worldcoin co-founders recently engaged with government officials to discuss potential collaboration and regulatory compliance, emphasizing their commitment to user privacy through the implementation of the “Personal Custody” system and allowing the deletion of biometric data upon user request.
Another recent development indicates a significant progression in the firm’s digital identity-based mission. Worldcoin recently unveiled World Chain, a Layer 2 blockchain platform on Ethereum, through which the company aims to enhance transaction efficiency and scalability while maintaining robust security protocols inherent to Ethereum’s Layer 1. The specialized Layer 2 solution prioritizes human users, reducing bot influence and offering reduced transaction costs for verified individuals, which marks a strategic advancement towards creating a more human-centric blockchain environment.
Source: Globe Echo
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May 3, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith
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