Indonesiaβs Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has suspended the operating license of World Network, previously known as Worldcoin, following concerns about non-compliance with registration requirements. The decision was made after authorities discovered that the platform was operating under a registration certificate belonging to a different legal entity.
Temporary Suspension Amid Public Concerns
Komdigi announced the temporary suspension of World Network and WorldID services in response to public complaints regarding suspicious activities tied to the platforms. In a recent statement, the ministry revealed plans to summon PT. Terang Bulan Abadi and PT. Sandina Abadi Nusantara, two local entities associated with World Network and WorldID operations in Indonesia. The move is intended to safeguard the public from potential risks.
Registration Irregularities Found
Preliminary investigations indicate that PT. Terang Bulan Abadi is not officially registered to provide digital services in Indonesia. Additionally, Worldcoin was reportedly using a registration certificate belonging to another company, raising further legal and operational concerns.
“Non-compliance with registration obligations and utilizing another entityβs identity to operate a digital service is a serious violation,” said Alexander Sabar, Director General of Digital Space Oversight at Komdigi.
Sabar emphasized the importance of public vigilance, urging individuals to report unauthorized digital services and suspected violations through official complaint channels.
Global Scrutiny Over Biometric Data Collection
World Network has faced regulatory challenges beyond Indonesia. In Brazil, the national data protection authority raised concerns over the platformβs practices related to biometric data collection. Regulators found that users were offered financial incentives, such as the native token Worldcoin (WLD), in exchange for their biometric information.
Ethical Concerns Over Consent
Brazilβs Autoridade Nacional de ProteΓ§Γ£o de Dados warned that offering monetary compensation to collect biometric data may undermine the validity of user consent, particularly for individuals in vulnerable situations. This raises ethical questions about privacy and data protection in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
As the crypto industry continues to expand globally, regulators are increasingly scrutinizing projects to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards. Users are advised to stay informed and exercise caution when engaging with digital platforms, especially those involving sensitive personal data.
Tips for Safe Participation in Crypto Platforms
- Verify Licensing: Always check if a platform is properly registered and licensed to operate in your region.
- Understand Data Policies: Review how your personal data is collected, stored, and used before agreeing to any terms.
- Be Wary of Incentives: Exercise caution if financial rewards are offered in exchange for sensitive information.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Use official channels to report unauthorized or unethical practices.
For those interested in cryptocurrencies and digital finance, staying informed about regulatory developments is crucial for making safe and effective investment decisions. Remember to prioritize security and privacy when engaging with emerging technologies.