Worldcoin Faces Regulatory Scrutiny in Colombia Over Data Protection Concerns
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Loading... - Jeffery Watt
- 09 Sep 2024
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The Worldcoin Foundation and Tools for Humanity are under investigation by Colombia's Superintendence of Industry and Commerce (SIC) for alleged violations of the country's personal data protection regulations. The regulatory body has initiated formal proceedings against the organizations, citing concerns over the collection and processing of sensitive personal data.
The investigation will examine whether Worldcoin Foundation and Tools for Humanity obtained explicit and informed consent from individuals for data collection, implemented adequate data treatment and security policies, and provided sufficient mechanisms for addressing complaints and consultations from data subjects.
If the allegations are substantiated, the SIC could impose severe penalties, including fines, suspension of activities, or cessation of operations. This development highlights the increasing scrutiny of tech companies' data practices, particularly as they expand globally.
Worldcoin, which aims to create a global digital identity system using biometric data, has faced similar regulatory challenges in other jurisdictions, including Kenya, Europe, Spain, Hong Kong, and Portugal. The company has been accused of violating data protection laws and has faced bans and suspensions in several countries.
The ongoing investigation in Colombia underscores the importance of ensuring that tech companies prioritize data protection and comply with local regulations. As the use of biometric data becomes more widespread, regulatory bodies are increasingly scrutinizing companies' data practices to protect citizens' fundamental rights.
