The emergence of World App, which aims to create a global identity system based on biometric data through iris scanning, has sparked controversy. So, is the iris scanning performed by World App dangerous?

Recently, the World App went viral on social media and became a hot topic among internet users after reports claimed it offered IDR 800,000 to those willing to have their retina data recorded.

World, which is operated by Tools for Humanity (TFH), is an organization focused on developing and implementing technology to support digital identity. TFH is a tech company based in the United States, founded by Sam Altman, also the CEO of OpenAI and creator of ChatGPT, and Alex Blania.

One of the technologies they use is Orb, an encryption system and data security strategy.

Orb is equipped with advanced cameras and sensors that not only scan the iris but also capture high-resolution images of the body, face, and eyes, including the user's iris.

Additionally, Orb can detect Doppler radar non-contact monitoring of heart rate, respiration, and other vital signs.

This biometric information is used to generate an "IrisHash," a code stored locally inside Orb. World claims that this code is never shared, but instead used to check if the IrisHash already exists in their database.

To do this, the company states that it uses a new cryptographic method that protects privacy, known as zero-knowledge proof. If the algorithm finds a match, it indicates that someone may have tried to register.

So, what exactly is the danger of providing biometric data, including iris data?

Digital transaction management platform, TrustCloud, states that what World Coin is doing by offering rewards to people willing to undergo iris scanning carries significant risks, particularly concerning privacy, security, and the use of biometric data.

According to TrustCloud, biometric data, such as iris scanning, is considered highly sensitive information. Unlike other personal data like names or addresses, biometric data is unique and immutable.

"Once compromised, this data can be used to impersonate someone, access confidential information, or even cause physical harm. This data can also be sold to large companies that use it for targeted advertising, influencing consumer habits," TrustCloud said.

"Giving up your fingerprints or iris scans is like sending a copy of your identification documents without any filters," it continued.

Identity Theft

TrustCloud also highlights that biometric data is unique and unchangeable, making it an ideal target for cybercriminals. If this data falls into the wrong hands, it can be exploited for various crimes, including:

• Financial identity theft: Cybercriminals could use this data to access bank accounts, credit cards, or even take out loans in the victim's name.

• Election fraud: Biometric data could be misused to vote illegally in elections or engage in other activities that require identity verification.

• Physical crimes: Theft of biometric facial data could lead to physical crimes, as it could facilitate access to restricted areas or help criminals impersonate victims to carry out criminal activities.

Alleged Data Exploitation

In 2022, an investigation by MIT Technology Review accused Worldcoin's operations of falling far short of its lofty goals, collecting sensitive biometric data from vulnerable groups in exchange for cash.

Several villages in West Java were identified as targets for this data collection. The data gathering was even conducted in cooperation with some village officials.

Tools for Humanity officially launched its presence and product in Indonesia in February 2025. This means the platform had already been operating for several years before expanding to Indonesia.

World has been reported to use different approaches in various countries to attract registrants. For instance, they gave away AirPods to people in Sudan who were willing to have their retinas scanned.

One thing that remains consistent, however, is their marketing target, which focuses on vulnerable groups.