• by Admin

Worldcoin Frozen: Who's Really Being Protected?

Technological innovation continues to offer the promise of convenience. One of the most talked about is Worldcoin and its digital app, World App. Behind the promise of free crypto tokens and global digital identity solutions, there is a big concern: is our personal data really safe?

What are Worldcoin and World App?

Worldcoin is a blockchain-based project that aims to create a universal digital identity, called World ID. To obtain it, users must scan their irises using a tool called Orb, which then creates a unique biometric ID. In return, users receive the digital token Worldcoin (WLD).

The World App is the main entry point to access the ID and store the token. It looks futuristic, but behind the convenience, many countries are beginning to question the methods and security implemented.

Why are many countries opposed?

Countries like Kenya, Germany, Spain, and Hong Kong have either frozen or investigated the Worldcoin project. The reason? The collection of biometric data on a massive scale, without adequate transparency and without assurance of long-term protection of the data.

Indonesia is also on the move. The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemenkomdigi) officially froze the World App service because it has not met the provisions as an Electronic System Operator (PSE) and is considered to violate the principle of personal data protection.

Indonesia is indeed opening opportunities for world technology companies, in an effort to accelerate the transition to an equitable digital economic system. But of course, every investment that enters Indonesia must comply with applicable regulations.

Biometrics: Immutable Data

Unlike passwords, biometric data such as irises cannot be replaced. Once leaked, the risk is permanent. Collecting this data especially from the general public in exchange for digital tokens is a big concern.

In developing countries, digital literacy is still a challenge. Many people are tempted to “sell” their data without really understanding the consequences.

Is this Digital Exploitation?

The question remains: Is the crypto reward worth the risk of a lifetime of personal data leakage? Many see this as no longer an innovation, but a new form of exploitation, where privacy is commoditized.

This project highlights the importance of digital ethics in the application of technology. Transparency, informed consent and data protection should be prioritized.

---

Cover: Technology Should Prioritize Human Protection

Worldcoin may offer a more connected and decentralized digital future. However, without strong privacy protections and strict regulations, this technology could backfire on people's digital human rights.

We must be cautious in embracing new technologies. Personal data is not a medium of exchange. Privacy is a right, not a price. Government, industry and society must come together to ensure innovation does not come at the expense of the most basic protection we have control over our own data.

Author: Ghea Devita

Marketing Communication, PT Perkom Indah Murni.