Bitget App
Trade smarter
Buy cryptoMarketsTradeFuturesCopyBotsEarn

Worldcoin Probe: Singapore Investigates Account Misuse

DailyCoinDailyCoin2024/09/10 21:03
By:DailyCoin
  • Worldcoin is subject to investigations across multiple jurisdictions.
  • Global regulatory backlash focuses on data privacy concerns.
  • Singapore probes the illegal misuse of Worldcoin accounts.

Worldcoin aims to create universal access to the global economy, with its vision centered around the World ID verification system. Despite efforts to enhance its reputation, such as introducing face verification alongside retina scans and open-sourcing parts of its protocol, the project continues to be mired in controversy.

In a further setback to Worldcoin’s plans, the company is now under fresh scrutiny in Singapore. Authorities are investigating illegal transfers of Worldcoin accounts, which are suspected of violating the country’s payment laws.

Worldcoin Accounts For Sale

In a joint statement with lawmakers, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced on Monday that local police have launched an investigation into seven individuals suspected of buying or selling Worldcoin accounts and tokens, “which may then be misused for criminal activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing.”

According to authorities, the activities under investigation fall under the scope of the Payment Services Act 2019, which prohibits unlicensed and unexempted individuals from offering payment services. 

Sponsored

The statement clarified that Worldcoin itself does not offer payment services in Singapore. Instead, the investigation focuses on individuals involved in selling and purchasing Worldcoin accounts.

While Singapore authorities emphasized the importance of data protection compliance for companies operating within their jurisdiction, they did not specifically identify Worldcoin as a risk.

Scrutiny and Suspicion

Although Singapore authorities did not explicitly criticize Worldcoin’s operations, the project is subject to scrutiny across multiple jurisdictions worldwide. 

The Superintendence of Industry and Commerce, Columbia, opened an investigation into Worldcoin’s operations in August, citing potential breaches of personal data protection laws. This action followed closely a similar probe in Spain, where Worldcoin came under fire over its handling of user data.

These probes join a growing list of jurisdictions scrutinizing Worldcoin’s activities,

with authorities in Hong Kong, Kenya, and Argentina, among others, raising concerns about the project’s data practices.

On the Flipside

  • The concept of a universal basic income tied to digital identity verification reshapes discussions on global economic equality.
  • Ongoing Worldcoin probes highlight the lack of an international data protection standard.
  • It’s unclear how Woldcoin accounts can be transferred if they are unlocked by biometric data.

Why This Matters

While Singapore authorities may not have specific issues with Worldcoin, the number of ongoing investigations across multiple jurisdictions raises concerns.

Worldcoin partners with Malaysia to develop digital infrastructure.
Worldcoin Enters Malaysia with the Government’s Blessing

Hong Kong crypto ETFs continue to lag their US counterparts.
Hong Kong Crypto ETFs Flop: Investors Face 20% Loss

0

Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.

PoolX: Stake to earn
CEC, QTLX, GDV and other popular new coins are in hot progress!
Stake now!

You may also like

Announcement on Resumption of FIL Network Withdrawal Services

We’re pleased to announce that we have resumed FIL withdrawal services. We apologize for any inconvenience caused during the suspension of these services, and thank you for your patience and support! Join Bitget, the World's Leading Crypto Exchange and Web 3 Company Sign up on Bitget now >>> Follow

Bitget Announcement2024/09/17 14:44

A Huge Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) Move Came From Singapore's Largest Bank!

DBS Bank has announced that it will offer over-the-counter (OTC) cryptocurrency options trading and structured notes to its corporate clients.

Bitcoinsistemi2024/09/17 14:42

How Much Will the FED Cut Interest Rates Tomorrow? Huge Survey Results Announced!

According to CNBC's Fed survey, respondents said the Fed will make a soft landing and cut rates by 25 basis points tomorrow.

Bitcoinsistemi2024/09/17 14:42