The Worldcoin Foundation has voiced its disappointment over Hong Kong regulatory authorities’ recent ban, stressing its adherence to legal operations and data privacy rules.
The Worldcoin Foundation expressed its disappointment with the recent decision by Hong Kong regulatory authorities to ban its operations, emphasizing that the organization operates lawfully and fully complies with all relevant data privacy laws, including Hong Kong’s personal data (privacy) ordinance.
“This includes the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance of Hong Kong, among many other similar statutes in other regions.”
Worldcoin’s spokesperson highlighted that its mission is to prepare humanity for the age of artificial intelligence by enhancing privacy standards through methods like data minimization, user control over data, and advanced technologies such as personal custody, iris code deletion, and secure multi-party computation. The foundation argues that these measures ensure user data is handled with the highest levels of security and privacy.
“Unfortunately, the authorities in Hong Kong overlooked these aspects in their evaluation of the humanness verification process.”
Worldcoin’s response to the Hong Kong ban follows the region’s privacy regulator’s finding that Worldcoin violated local privacy laws, stating that the San Francisco-based startup poses risks due to the way it handles biometric data. Privacy Commissioner Ada Chung Lai-ling said the face and iris images collected by the Worldcoin project were “unnecessary and excessive,” violating local regulations.
Founded in 2019 by Sam Altman, Max Novendstern, and Alex Blania, Worldcoin is a crypto project aimed at creating a global digital identity platform using iris-scanning technology. In May 2023, the project raised $115 million in a Series C funding round led by Blockchain Capital, with participation from Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Bain Capital Crypto, and Distributed Global.
Summary Review: The Worldcoin Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to advance data privacy and security standards, despite the setback in Hong Kong. The organization maintains that its operations comply with all relevant laws and regulations, aiming to reassure users and authorities of its commitment to lawful and secure data handling practices. The recent ban highlights the ongoing challenges and scrutiny faced by tech companies operating in the biometric and crypto space, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and adaptation to regulatory landscapes worldwide.
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