Worldcoin Faces Setback in Spain as Court Upholds Suspension
Worldcoin’s recent legal battle in Spain has taken a new turn as the Madrid-based High Court declined to grant an injunction against the temporary suspension imposed by the country’s data protection authority, the AEPD. The authority invoked emergency powers under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to issue the local order, citing concerns about the collection of sensitive biometric data by Worldcoin.
The AEPD’s decision to suspend Worldcoin’s operations was driven by the potential risks posed to individuals’ rights and freedoms, with a particular emphasis on the protection of minors. The court’s ruling underscores the importance of prioritizing public interest and data protection in the face of emerging technologies that raise privacy concerns.
Worldcoin, operated by Tools for Humanity, ceased its scanning operations promptly following the AEPD’s order, which mandated compliance within a tight 72-hour window. Despite Worldcoin’s appeal against the suspension, the court upheld the AEPD’s decision, citing the critical need to safeguard individuals’ rights in the digital age.
Tools for Humanity’s argument that the AEPD had overstepped its jurisdiction under the GDPR’s urgency procedure was not deemed sufficient to overturn the suspension. The court expressed reservations about the legal basis for data processing, the level of information provided to data subjects, and the potential impact on individuals’ rights, including the right to withdraw consent and have personal data deleted.
The court proceedings shed light on the specific complaints received by the AEPD, which highlighted concerns about Worldcoin’s data collection practices, especially regarding minors. Allegations of insufficient information provided to data subjects, the lack of a consent withdrawal mechanism, and issues with data deletion procedures were central to the complaints.
In response to the court’s decision, Tools for Humanity expressed concerns about the potential harm to their global business, citing economic losses and reputational damage. However, the court emphasized that the suspension was temporary, limited to Spain, and subject to compensation if Worldcoin prevails in future legal proceedings.
Worldcoin’s spokeswoman, Rebecca Hahn, reiterated the company’s commitment to compliance with data protection regulations, including the GDPR. She expressed readiness to engage with the AEPD and provide necessary information to address concerns about the lawful use of biometric technology in Spain.
The outcome of this legal battle underscores the growing importance of data protection and privacy regulations in the digital landscape, particularly concerning the collection and processing of sensitive biometric data. As Worldcoin navigates these challenges, the case serves as a reminder of the evolving regulatory landscape shaping the future of data privacy and security.
Ian is a cryptocurrency enthusiast blending humor with professionalism. With an engineering background and a storyteller's heart, he simplifies the blockchain world with sharp analysis and a touch of wit. At Cryptowire, he brings his unique perspective to make digital financial innovation accessible to all.
