Kenya Halts Worldcoin Project Operations

Kenya has taken the decision to suspend all Worldcoin project operations within its borders until it can ensure the safety and security of its citizens. The Ministry of the Interior and National Administration announced on August 2, 2023, that Worldcoin will no longer be allowed to operate in the country.

The suspension comes in response to ongoing investigations by various Kenyan agencies, including those responsible for security, data protection, and financial services. These investigations are focused on assessing the legality and authenticity of Worldcoin’s biometrics data collection practices.

The Kenyan government expressed concern over the activities of an organization identifying itself as “WOLRDCOIN,” which has been involved in the registration of citizens through the collection of eyeball/iris data.

The suspension will be immediate and will remain in effect until relevant public agencies can confirm that there are no risks to the general public. The government also stated its intention to take action against any individuals found engaging in Worldcoin’s activities locally.

It is important to note that Sam Altman’s WorldCoin crypto eye-scanning project is facing similar regulatory scrutiny in other countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. However, Kenya is the first country to take the step of suspending the company’s operations altogether.

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