Spanish regulators have ordered Worldcoin, the prominent investor Sam Altman-led cryptocurrency project that aims to distribute tokens based on distinctive human iris scans, to immediately stop data collection operations within the nation.
Spain’s data protection agency, AEPD, handed down a “precautionary measure” this week demanding Worldcoin shut down its user verification system relying on iris biometrics. Regulators warned that failure to prove compliance within 72 hours would result in additional scrutiny and potential penalties.
This crackdown highlights growing unease from European officials around the privacy risks stemming from Worldcoin’s identity verification process. Despite having the support of significant venture capital crypto funds like Andreessen Horowitz, Worldcoin now has to deal with intricate regional data protection laws that jeopardize its ability to operate globally.
The extent of the shutdown’s impact remains unclear, as both Worldcoin and regulators haven’t released further details. However, Spain’s hardline stance against its iris scanning methodology jeopardizes Worldcoin’s goals towards building digital identities and distributing tokens.
Worldcoin shows muted price reaction
Interestingly, the regulatory sanctions have barely influenced Worldcoin’s native token, WLD, in markets this week. After falling 40% from its record high of $9.45 last month, WLD found support around the $5.76 level.
This support aligns closely with WLD’s 50% Fibonacci retracement of the parabolic rally since January 2024. The muted reaction by token holders suggests confidence in Worldcoin’s business model remains mostly unshaken.
However, should violations occur, prompting additional Spanish penalties or a wider investigation into iris scanning practices, the regulatory overhang could pressure WLD substantially lower.
Upside potential still exists given current consolidation, with WLD targeting $14 next if its foothold around $5.76 holds in the days ahead. But failure to appease regulators’ demands opens the door to retests of the $4.89 and $3.81 support zones.
As Worldcoin navigates its largest controversy since launching, the implications stretch far beyond Spain. Global policymakers are closely tracking whether Web3 innovations comply with existing privacy statutes. Their findings could determine the scope of mass adoption for many crypto projects hoping to break into mainstream recognition.
