Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Informatics has suspended Worldcoin and its digital identity platform, World ID, following public complaints and concerns about data privacy and regulatory violations, Antara reported.

Worldcoin is a Sam Altman’s cryptocurrency project that utilises iris scans for user identification.

The ministry launched a preliminary investigation into the local entities operating the services—PT Terang Bulan Abadi and PT Sandina Abadi Nusantara.

Officials found that PT Terang Bulan Abadi was not registered as an electronic system operator and lacked the required operational permit (TDPSE).

The permit associated with Worldcoin was instead found under a different company, PT Sandina Abadi Nusantara.

Alexander Sabar, Director General for Informatics Application Supervision, said the suspension is a preventive measure aimed at mitigating potential risks to users and ensuring compliance with national regulations.

Under Government Regulation No. 71 of 2019 and Ministerial Regulation No. 10 of 2021, all digital service providers must be registered and legally accountable.

Using another company’s registration to operate digital services constitutes a serious violation under Indonesian law.

The ministry has announced plans to summon both companies for further clarification.

Authorities also urged the public to remain cautious when engaging with unverified digital services and to report any suspicious activity.

Worldcoin has attracted attention in Indonesia by offering crypto tokens in exchange for biometric data, particularly iris scans.

While the model has gained popularity, it has also sparked concern over data security and user privacy.

Globally, the project is under scrutiny, with Spain, Portugal, and Hong Kong suspending its operations.

Authorities are investigating individuals allegedly involved in the unauthorised trading of Worldcoin accounts and tokens in Singapore.

Featured image credit: Screengrab from World’s YouTube video