Experts are raising concerns as Worldcoin, operated by Tools for Humanity, expands its services into Mexico. On October 5, local media outlets such as Diario de Puebla reported that Worldcoin has launched new World ID services and facilities in Puebla, a major city in east-central Mexico. The project now operates four centers in the area, offering ID verification services to ensure users are 18 and older.
Worldcoin aims to ensure that only “unique human beings” receive World IDs through its biometric verification processes. However, security and IT experts are sounding alarms, noting that the project continues to face regulatory challenges in Mexico and the broader Latin American (LATAM) region.
Carlos Tlahuel, a security expert at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, urged caution among citizens regarding how their personal data is processed. He advised individuals to critically assess the necessity of providing biometric data and to question the motives behind such requests.
Some analysts believe Worldcoin has targeted LATAM for expansion due to the potential regulatory hurdles it encounters in other regions. Evin McMullen, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at the digital identity company Privado ID, stated, “New technology designed to secure the identities of the entire internet should be built by empowering all communities. Worldcoin doesn’t operate in the US or most of the EU, which have strong financial resources and robust data protections, making biometric data collection legally complex and expensive.”
In response to criticism, Worldcoin has introduced ID verification solutions aimed at ensuring biometric data is not collected from minors in various LATAM locations. Reports indicate that many individuals providing their biometric data in Mexico are immigrants from neighboring countries like Colombia. Concerns have been raised about third-party agents allegedly exploiting these immigrants by collecting iris scans without delivering promised cryptoassets in return.
An example highlighted in April was that of Juan Sosa, a 64-year-old Argentinian martial arts instructor, who stated, “I scanned my iris at a Worldcoin center because I don’t have a penny; there’s no other reason. I didn’t want to do it, but because of my age, no one will give me work. And I need the money.”
Despite ongoing regulatory and privacy concerns, Worldcoin’s expansion efforts in LATAM seem to be gaining traction. Just last month, Tools for Humanity announced plans to extend its services into Guatemala, signaling a commitment to continue its growth in the region.
October 2024, Cryptoniteuae
