Iris Biometrics Launches in Italy While Kenya Rejects Data Use

World ID has officially launched its iris biometric scanning technology in Italy, implementing its systems in Rome to establish a “proof of human” identity verification method. This initiative comes in response to the growing issue of online fraud in Italy, which reportedly cost the nation 181 million euros in 2024. The company aims to tackle the challenges of online authenticity, not only in Italy but globally, by offering its services for use in ticketing, entertainment, financial services, and social media platforms.

The World ID system is designed exclusively for individuals aged 18 and older, making it a potential solution for age verification in various sectors. The company emphasizes its commitment to user privacy, stating that it does not store personal identifiers such as names, government-issued IDs, images, or biometric templates. This approach aims to build trust among users amid increasing concerns over data security.

Despite this positive development in Italy, World ID faced significant challenges in Kenya. The country’s Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) recently confirmed that the parent organization of World ID, Tools for Humanity (TfH), has deleted all biometric data collected from Kenyan users. The ODPC was not convinced by TfH’s argument that its practices upheld privacy standards.

The ODPC’s findings indicated that TfH had not conducted a necessary Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) prior to scanning biometric data from Kenyan citizens. Additionally, the issuance of Worldcoin, a cryptocurrency offered in exchange for registration, was deemed a violation of the requirement for voluntary data submission. The ODPC also noted that TfH failed to register its affiliates in the country, further complicating the situation.

These developments mark the conclusion of a compliance investigation that began in mid-2023, focusing on the practices of Worldcoin and its parent company in Kenya. The rejection of World ID’s technology highlights the importance of robust data protection measures and regulatory compliance in the fast-evolving landscape of biometric technology.

As biometric solutions become more prevalent, the contrasting experiences of Italy and Kenya underline the varying global responses to data privacy and security. World ID continues to advocate for its technology, aiming to expand its reach while ensuring that it respects user privacy and complies with international standards.