Thomas Daniels
The Worldcoin Foundation has recently launched an innovative open-source system, aimed at bolstering the security of sensitive data, including biometric information. This strategic initiative emerges at a time when digital security is under intense scrutiny, particularly concerning the handling of personal and biometric data.
The newly introduced system is designed to enhance data security through the use of Secure Multi-Party Computation (SMPC), a method that protects data by dispersing it across multiple locations. Hosted on Github, this system exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to transparency and community-driven development.
As detailed in the Foundation’s blog, this advanced SMPC technology splits a single secret into several parts, distributing these amongst various stakeholders to fortify protection. This method is particularly crucial for safeguarding biometric data collected during user registration for the Worldcoin (WLD) project through Orb devices. These devices, pivotal in the registration process, perform iris scanning to verify identities and facilitate the distribution of WLD tokens.
In a significant move towards enhanced data privacy, the Worldcoin Foundation has also transitioned to this new system, simultaneously erasing old iris codes that were accumulated previously. This step not only elevates the standard of data protection but also aligns with global best practices amidst growing regulatory scrutiny over data collection methods.
The collaboration with TACEO and Tools for Humanity has been instrumental in overcoming the scalability and cost barriers associated with SMPC technology. Tools for Humanity, co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has been at the forefront of developing this project, taking significant measures to alleviate concerns surrounding its data handling practices.
This development is timely as demands for biometric verification are increasing across various sectors. With its new system, the Worldcoin Foundation is leading the way in setting higher standards for data security and addressing the critical needs of digital identity verification in today’s interconnected world.
