Worldcoin to remove iris codes from World IDs upon user request

Worldcoin has introduced the ability to unverify World IDs via permanent iris code deletion in response to growing scrutiny.

The initiative, which assigns digital World IDs to users after scanning their irises to confirm personhood, has registered nearly five million people.

To address privacy concerns, Worldcoin (WLD) now allows users to request the permanent deletion of their ‘iris code,’ a unique numeric representation of their iris texture.

The project said in a blog post, “Now, World ID holders have even more control with the option to unverify their World ID.”

The decision aligns with Worldcoin’s ongoing efforts to mitigate privacy concerns while promoting its vision of a digital ID system capable of proving personhood in an AI-dominated era.

Worldcoin addresses user privacy

To counteract concerns, Worldcoin introduced Personal Custody, allowing new users to store their data on personal devices and offering an added layer of security by enabling users to opt out of data encryption and storage by Worldcoin. Furthermore, the project has implemented in-person age verification checks for users over 18 and consulted third-party privacy experts to develop these new measures.

The Worldcoin team wrote, “The individual‘s World ID will become invalid, and a six-month ‘cool off’ period will be initiated.”

The period is designed to prevent fraud, ensuring that individuals cannot immediately re-verify their identity. Following this period, the iris code will be permanently deleted and unrecoverable, marking a step in Worldcoin’s commitment to user privacy and data protection.

The measures come amidst investigations and pushbacks from several countries, including a probe by South Korea and orders from Spain and Portugal to halt biometric data collection.