Worldcoin Operations Halted by Government Due to Safety Worries
The government has ceased all activities related to the WorldCoin cryptocurrency initiative.
Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki stated in a statement released on Wednesday that the government is concerned about the controversial project, which has so far registered thousands of Kenyans, and that the suspension will remain in effect until relevant agencies certify that there are no security risks.
A portion of the statement read, “Relevant security, financial services, and data protection agencies have initiated inquiries and investigations to determine the authenticity and legality of the aforementioned activities, the safety and protection of the data being harvested, and how the harvesters intend to use the data.”
In addition, it will be crucial that adequate assurances of public safety and the integrity of financial transactions involving such a large number of citizens are provided in advance.
Kindiki added that anyone discovered aiding or participating in the activities will be punished as required by law.
Individuals can enroll for Worldcoin, which is owned by American Artificial Intelligence (AI), by scanning their iris and receiving 25 free WLD. The current value of the tokens is Ksh 7,786.
ALSO READ: Worldcoin Registration At KICC Halted for Security Reasons
On Tuesday, thousands again flocked to the Kenyatta International Conference Center (KICC) to sign up for the project, even though some did not understand what cryptocurrency is.
Approximately 350,000 Kenyans have registered so far, prompting police to halt the registration process out of security concerns.
Officers demanded that the Worldcoin team cease the exercise and expelled the crowds, citing security concerns. They advised the team to find a larger venue, such as Nyayo or Kasarani stadiums.
Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait stated that the commission is evaluating Worldcoin’s practices to ensure legal compliance.
Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has been heavily criticized for his initiative due to privacy concerns. Nonetheless, the company’s website states that the project is “completely private” and that users can choose to have their data deleted or encrypted.
Worldcoin Operations Halted by Government Due to Safety Worries
