The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has called for heightened vigilance from the public as it enters discussions with WorldCoin, a cutting-edge company involved in processing iris data using an Orb.
In the statement released on Friday, July 28, the ODPC said that the primary objective of these engagements is to ensure full compliance with the provisions of the Data Protection Act, 2019.
Following the recent launch of WorldCoin, concerns have arisen regarding the handling of sensitive personal data. In response, the ODPC has initiated actions to protect data privacy and security by verifying that WorldCoin is adhering to the Data Protection Act, which was enacted in 2019.
This legislation empowers the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner to conduct assessments and request relevant information to ascertain the lawful processing of personal data.
As this process unfolds, Kenyans are urged to exercise caution and seek comprehensive information before sharing any personal or sensitive data with WorldCoin or any similar data-processing entity. Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait emphasized the importance of upholding data protection regulations to safeguard individuals’ privacy and security.
“It is the responsibility of data controllers to ensure that personal data is processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act. Failure to do so not only puts individuals’ privacy at risk but also exposes an organization to legal and reputational consequences,” Kassalt stated.
“We understand the significance of WorldCoin’s innovative approach, but we must prioritize the privacy and security of Kenyans’ personal data. The ODPC is committed to promoting compliance with the Data Protection Act and will continue to engage with organizations to achieve this goal,” Kassait said.
Worldcoin, a pioneering cryptocurrency and digital identification platform, boasts a user-friendly solution for global identity verification, ensuring a clear distinction between genuine humans and automated entities such as bots and AI algorithms.
Harnessing the power of blockchain, the technology behind cryptocurrencies, Worldcoin has successfully developed a robust digital identity verification system. Additionally, it claims to offer a secure payment platform and introduces its exclusive crypto token, WLD.
The functioning of the system revolves around three interconnected components, each essential for seamless operation. The cornerstone is the World ID, a key feature empowering users to authenticate their identity online. Interested individuals can effortlessly acquire their World ID through a cutting-edge eye-scanning device named the Orb.
The Orb captures a unique image of the user’s iris, akin to individual fingerprints, and generates a one-of-a-kind identification code, known as an IrisCode. This code serves as a safeguard, preventing multiple World IDs from being issued to a single individual.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the Worldcoin blockchain meticulously records every World ID. Users can effortlessly verify their identity by utilizing the World app, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
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