Worldcoin has recently launched in Colombia, introducing a groundbreaking cryptocurrency model that verifies identity through the human iris. This innovative system combines biometrics with digital currency, aiming to create a secure and inclusive way to participate in the global digital economy—without compromising user privacy.
Backed by a digital identity tool called World ID, Worldcoin enables individuals to prove they are real humans online, without revealing personal information such as name, age, gender, or ID number. To register, users must scan their iris using a device known as an "orb"—a biometric hardware unit specifically developed by Worldcoin.
👉 Discover how biometric verification is reshaping digital identity and crypto access.
While the promise of free cryptocurrency in exchange for an eye scan may sound futuristic—or even suspicious—it's part of a broader mission: building a globally accessible financial system rooted in privacy-preserving technology.
What Is Worldcoin and How Does It Work in Colombia?
Worldcoin’s core mission isn’t to identify who you are, but rather to confirm that you are a unique human being—not a bot or a fake account. This distinction is crucial in an era where online fraud, identity theft, and AI-generated personas are rampant.
The company emphasizes that no personally identifiable information (PII) is collected during registration. That means no names, phone numbers, addresses, or government IDs are stored. Instead, the focus is on establishing "proof of personhood"—a digital confirmation that each user is a real, living individual.
To achieve this, users interact with the World App, where they review and accept clear consent forms before proceeding. Participation is entirely voluntary, and transparency is central to the process.
Once consent is given, the orb captures a high-resolution image of the user’s iris. This image is then converted into a unique cryptographic code—called an iris hash—using advanced secure multi-party computation (SMPC) technology. The original image is immediately deleted from the orb after processing.
This ensures that only the encrypted code remains, and even that isn’t stored on any central server. Instead, it’s kept securely on the user’s own smartphone within the World App.
What Happens to My Iris Data?
One of the most pressing concerns around Worldcoin is data privacy—especially regarding sensitive biometric data like iris scans.
According to Worldcoin representatives, the raw iris image never leaves the orb. It is processed locally and destroyed instantly after generating the iris hash. The resulting code cannot be reverse-engineered to recreate the original image or link back to any personal details.
Furthermore, Worldcoin uses zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs)—a cutting-edge cryptographic method that allows the system to verify your humanity without accessing or storing any private data. In essence, the network can confirm you’re human without knowing anything about you.
This approach aligns with growing global demands for privacy-first digital identity solutions, especially as more services move online and require reliable user authentication.
👉 Learn how zero-knowledge proofs are revolutionizing digital privacy and security.
Can I Delete My Iris Information from the System?
Since Worldcoin does not store actual iris images, there’s nothing to “delete” in that form. However, users retain full control over their digital identity.
If someone chooses to leave the platform, they can deactivate their World ID at any time directly through the app. Once deactivated, their ability to use World ID for authentication ends, and no further interactions with the network are possible.
Importantly, because the iris hash is decentralized and stored only on the user’s device, there is no centralized database to purge—enhancing both security and user autonomy.
Security Measures Behind Iris Verification
Beyond SMPC and ZKPs, Worldcoin implements multiple layers of security:
- All communication between the orb and backend systems is end-to-end encrypted.
- Orbs are tamper-resistant devices designed to prevent unauthorized access or data extraction.
- Each orb undergoes regular audits and firmware updates to ensure compliance with global privacy standards.
These safeguards help maintain trust in a system that handles highly sensitive biological data—even if that data is never stored in raw form.
How Much Crypto Do Colombians Receive for Scanning Their Iris?
Users in Colombia who complete verification receive an initial allocation of 6.18 WLD tokens—the native cryptocurrency of the Worldcoin network. This amount may vary slightly depending on timing and regional availability, but early adopters generally receive higher incentives.
Additionally, users can claim monthly rewards on the anniversary date of their verification. However, these follow a diminishing return model: each subsequent reward is smaller than the last. This structure encourages early participation while distributing tokens more equitably over time.
As of now, 1 WLD token trades at approximately $1.70 (around 6,839 Colombian pesos), though prices fluctuate based on market conditions.
These tokens aren’t just symbolic—they represent real access to the digital economy. Users can transfer, trade, or hold them via compatible wallets, opening doors to decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and cross-border transactions.
Where Are the Iris-Scanning Orbs Located in Colombia?
Currently, authorized verification points equipped with orbs are available in several major cities:
- Bogotá
- Medellín
- Barranquilla
- Bucaramanga
- Cúcuta
- Cartagena
These locations allow residents to complete in-person verification easily and securely. Mobile orb units may also be deployed in underserved areas to expand access and promote financial inclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is scanning my iris safe with Worldcoin?
Yes. The orb captures your iris pattern only to generate a unique, encrypted code. The original image is deleted immediately and never shared or stored centrally.
Does Worldcoin sell my biometric data?
No. Worldcoin does not collect, store, or sell personal or biometric data. The system is built on privacy-preserving technologies like zero-knowledge proofs.
Can I get more than 6.18 WLD tokens?
You receive 6.18 WLD upon initial verification and can claim smaller monthly rewards afterward. Additional tokens may become available through future programs.
What can I do with WLD tokens?
You can store, send, swap, or invest them. WLD gives you access to blockchain-based services and global digital economies without upfront costs.
Who can use Worldcoin in Colombia?
Any adult with a smartphone and valid ID can participate voluntarily. The process requires physical presence at an orb location for iris scanning.
Is Worldcoin legal in Colombia?
Yes. While under regulatory scrutiny like many crypto projects, Worldcoin operates legally through authorized verification points and complies with local data protection guidelines.
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Final Thoughts
Worldcoin represents a bold step toward merging biometric identity with decentralized finance. By rewarding users with cryptocurrency for verifying their humanity—not their identity—it offers a new paradigm for digital inclusion.
In Colombia, where financial access remains uneven across regions, initiatives like this could empower millions to enter the global digital economy—securely and privately.
While questions about ethics and scalability remain, Worldcoin’s emphasis on user consent, data minimization, and cryptographic privacy sets a strong precedent for responsible innovation.
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