Worldcoin suspended in Indonesia over regulatory issues

Sam Altman’s Worldcoin project has been suspended by Indonesian authorities over compliance issues. The government has blocked all access to the website of Worldcoin. 

The Communication and Digital Affairs Ministry announced on Sunday that the website had promoted “iris scans” to Indonesian users without obtaining the proper authorization.

Alexander Sabar, Director General of Cyberspace Oversight at the Indonesian ministry, said, “This suspension is a preventive measure to protect the public from potential risks. We will summon Terang Bulan Abadi for an official clarification. Our investigation found that Worldcoin was using a PSE license registered under Sandina Abadi Nusantara.”

Offering token-based incentives, Worldcoin has quickly expanded its digital identity registration activities in Indonesian cities since 2024, drawing fresh participants. Images and videos of long lines of people lined up to scan their irises using a device called “the Orb” abound on social media sites. Every Worldcoin token given as a thank you for registering is apparently worth Rp 800,000.

Also Read: Hong Kong Halts Worldcoin Operations Over Privacy Concerns