Worldcoin, a platform founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, aimed at creating a globally inclusive identity and financial network, faced a setback in Spain as its legal efforts to defend its operations in the country were unsuccessful. Despite filing an injunction against the Spanish Data Protection Agency’s (AEPD) directive to halt data collection, the court rejected Worldcoin’s plea.
On March 6, the AEPD issued a temporary order forbidding Worldcoin from collecting data in Spain for three months. This action came in response to complaints alleging that users in Spain were unable to withdraw consent, and the company had purportedly gathered data from minors.
Worldcoin disputed these claims, accusing the AEPD of bypassing EU laws and spreading inaccurate information. They asserted that the regulator had ignored their communications for months.
Following the suspension of its operations in Spain, Worldcoin’s parent company, Tools for Humanity, filed a lawsuit against the AEPD’s order on the same day. They sought to suspend the regulator’s directive, arguing that it contradicted EU legislation, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
However, on March 11, the Supreme Court of Spain denied Worldcoin’s injunction request, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding public interest. The court also expressed doubts about the accuracy of the information provided by Worldcoin regarding user consent.
Spain is not the first country where Worldcoin has encountered regulatory scrutiny. In January 2024, the Hong Kong Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data initiated an investigation into the company’s local operations due to concerns about data privacy. Prior to this, Worldcoin’s services were suspended in Kenya and India.
The controversy surrounding Worldcoin revolves around its utilization of biometric scanning devices known as “orbs.” Users sign up for the service through an app and must undergo an eye scan at a designated facility.
Upon verification, their identities are linked to unique biometric data, which can be independently verified using Worldcoin’s services. Users who activate their accounts in the World App application are compensated with Worldcoin’s WLD token.
