Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin Supports Worldcoin Amid Regulatory Scrutiny
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has recently voiced his support for Worldcoin, a digital identity project that has been facing regulatory scrutiny in multiple countries. Despite recent actions taken by Portugal’s data regulator to halt the project’s biometric data collection, Buterin commended Worldcoin for its commitment to privacy and innovative use of modern cryptography.
Worldcoin, co-founded by Sam Altman, aims to distribute a digital ID and free cryptocurrency to users in exchange for scanning their irises with a device called the “orb.” The project has attracted over 4.5 million individuals across 120 countries but has also raised concerns about privacy in various jurisdictions.
In response to a social media post by Louis Anslow, Buterin highlighted Worldcoin’s efforts to address privacy critiques and design a more data-minimal system. He praised the project for taking privacy concerns seriously and leveraging modern cryptography.
Worldcoin Co-founder Alex Blania also outlined recent advancements made by the project, including making its Orb software open source and introducing self-custodial data management. The project has undergone audits by independent firms, emphasizing its commitment to security and privacy.
Despite facing regulatory challenges, Worldcoin continues to make progress in addressing privacy concerns and aligning with community, expert, and regulatory expectations. With support from figures like Vitalik Buterin and a focus on innovation and privacy, Worldcoin exemplifies the evolving landscape of digital identity and regulation in the digital age.
