Worldcoin Introduces World ID "Unverify" Feature to Address Privacy Concerns

Worldcoin, co-founded by OpenAI's Sam Altman, has announced significant updates aimed at addressing privacy concerns surrounding its project. These developments come amidst scrutiny over the project's use of eyeball-scanning technology and recent allegations of health risks associated with its Orbs devices in Kenya.

Worldcoin Enhances Data Control and Transparency with User-Centric Updates

In response to these concerns, Worldcoin is introducing two important updates to provide users with greater control over their data and increase transparency. The first update allows users to "unverify" their World IDs by permanently deleting their iris codes. This process initiates a six-month "cool-off" period to prevent immediate re-verification, thereby protecting against potential fraud.

Furthermore, Worldcoin will implement in-person age verification checks to ensure that only individuals aged 18 and older have access to the project. These measures aim to enhance trust, transparency, and user control over their personal information.

Worldcoin Bolsters Age Verification Measures with Third-Party Oversight, Prioritizing User Privacy and Regulatory Compliance

Acknowledging the reliance on in-person attestations to prevent underage signups, Worldcoin plans to strengthen its efforts by conducting age verification checks at registration venues. To uphold personal privacy, third-party personnel will perform these checks, ensuring that Worldcoin and its contributors remain unaware of users' identities.

These updates have been developed in consultation with third-party privacy and security experts and have undergone preliminary assessments by Worldcoin's lead supervisory authority in the EU, the Bavarian State Office for Data Protection Supervision (BayLDA). This demonstrates Worldcoin's commitment to preserving user privacy while addressing concerns raised by regulators and privacy advocates.