Spain has extended the ban on the operation of Worldcoin, a project led by Tools for Humanity Corporation, until the end of the year or until the Bavarian Data Protection Authority (BayLDA) makes a final decision.

This extension follows a precautionary measure imposed by the Spanish Data Protection Authority (AEPD) in March, requiring Worldcoin to stop collecting and processing personal data in Spain.

Worldcoin Foundation and Tools for Humanity have not made any public statements regarding this extension.

BayLDA Decision

The AEPD order was made under Article 66.1 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which aims to protect the rights and freedoms of individuals.

The Spanish National Court recently upheld the ban and dismissed Worldcoin's appeal, prioritizing personal data protection over corporate interests.

Worldcoin's legal commitment ensures that its operations will remain suspended until BayLDA completes its investigation. The Bavarian agency, which houses Worldcoin's main European office, is expected to conclude its investigation in the coming weeks.

This agreement does not limit the authority of AEPD or BayLDA to take additional supervisory measures if necessary. Cooperation between the two data protection authorities continues, with AEPD a stakeholder within the GDPR framework.

Regulatory challenges

Worldcoin has faced scrutiny and controversy since its inception. Launched to create a global identification system through iris scanning, the project has been criticized over privacy concerns and the potential for misuse of biometric data.

The project's founders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, envisioned Worldcoin as a way to use blockchain technology to ensure global basic income and financial inclusion. However, the collection and storage of biometric data has concerned privacy advocates and regulators around the world.

Worldcoin is facing regulatory challenges in other regions, including a ban on its operations in Hong Kong and Kenya – where its activities are considered espionage.

The outcome of BayLDA's decision will be crucial in determining the future of Worldcoin's operations in Spain and potentially Europe as a whole as the company navigates strict data protection regulations.

This case also sets a precedent for how emerging technologies related to biometric data are regulated and regulated in the EU.

Source: https://tapchibitcoin.io/tay-ban-nha-gia-han-lenh-cam-worldcoin-den-cuoi-nam-2024.html