Kurt Knutsson has reported on the launch of World ID’s iris scanning technology in six cities across the United States. Spearheaded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, the project aims to utilize biometric iris scanning to create a digital identity, helping users differentiate themselves from bots and AI. Users will simply look into a device known as the Orb to verify their identity. World ID works by scanning a person’s iris to produce a unique IrisCode, which is securely stored on a blockchain platform.
This allows for identity verification without disclosing sensitive personal information. After completing a scan, users receive their World ID, which can be used on platforms like Reddit, Telegram, and Shopify. As an added incentive, participants are rewarded with WLD cryptocurrency, receiving tokens equivalent to $40 that can be used, exchanged, or shared. Currently implemented in cities like Austin, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Nashville, Miami, and San Francisco, World ID has plans to expand its reach significantly, with a target of deploying 7,500 Orb devices by the end of the year to potentially serve 180 million users.
However, concerns regarding privacy and data security have arisen amidst the rollout. Critics argue that collecting and storing biometric data poses a significant risk to personal privacy. Regulatory bodies in Spain, Argentina, Kenya, and Hong Kong have paused or are reviewing the project due to fears about data collection practices. Furthermore, cybersecurity experts caution that once biometric information is linked to a digital identity, it becomes irretrievable, leading to potential surveillance issues.
While World ID may enhance online security by verifying human users in an increasingly AI-driven environment, the implications of storing such sensitive data continue to spark debate. As this technology develops, the balance between security and privacy will remain a crucial consideration.
Leave a Reply