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Brazil has officially banned Worldcoin, a controversial project that rewards users with cryptocurrency for scanning their irises. The decision follows concerns from regulators about data privacy and consumer influence.
Why Brazil Banned Worldcoin
Brazil’s National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) rejected Worldcoin’s appeal after initially suspending the project last month. Key concerns include:
- Consumer Influence
- Authorities worry that offering crypto in exchange for biometric data could unfairly influence behavior.
- Lack of Free and Informed Consent
- Brazil’s guidelines require biometric data collection to be fully voluntary, informed, and without pressure.
- Irreversible Data Collection
- Users cannot revoke consent or delete their biometric data once submitted.
Regulators Deny Worldcoin’s Request for More Time
Worldcoin, now rebranded as the World project, requested 45 days to modify its app and stop offering financial incentives. However, the ANPD rejected this request, arguing that World could simply pause iris scans until the necessary changes were made.
The project has been given 10 business days to confirm that all crypto payouts in Brazil have ceased.
Worldcoin’s Response
- Worldcoin stated it respects the ANPD’s decision and will comply.
- Despite the ban, its locations in Brazil will remain open to provide information and education.
- It apologized to those wanting to participate but reaffirmed its commitment to following regulations in all markets.
What is Worldcoin?
Worldcoin, co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, aims to verify people’s identities online. Users scan their irises to receive a World ID, proving they are human rather than bots.*
