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Worldcoin’s official launch triggers swift privacy scrutiny in Europe on July 28, 2023 at 5:42 pm
Worldcoin, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s bid to sew up the market for verifying humanness by convincing enough mobile meatsacks to have their eyeballs scanned in exchanged for crypto tokens (yes, really), only started its official global rollout this week but it’s already landed on the radar of European data protection authorities.
Why should anyone feel the need to prove their humanness on the Internet? Well one reason is that by unleashing free power tools like ChatGPT Altman’s generative AI company is leading the charge to make it harder to distinguish between bot-generated and human digital activity. But don’t worry, he’s got an eyeball-scanning orb-plus-crypto-token to sell humanity on for that!
Pop-up locations where willing guinea pigs (i.e. humans) can get some Worldcoin “digital tokens” in exchange for feeding their biometric data into its proprietary Half Life-esque orbs have sprung up in four markets in Europe so far: The U.K., France, Germany and Spain. And, surprising precisely no-one, privacy regulators in at least three of those markets are already expressing concerns and/or actively investigating WTF Worldcoin is doing with European’s sensitive personal data.
Earlier this week the U.K.’s Information Commission Office (ICO) was asked about Worldcoin launching in the U.K. and said publicly it would be “making enquiries”, before issuing some boilerplate warning that: “Organisations must conduct a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) before starting any processing that is likely to result in high risk, such as processing special category biometric data. Where they identify high risks that they cannot mitigate, they must consult the ICO.”
The ICO’s remarks also emphasized the need for “a clear lawful basis to process personal data”, adding: “Where they are relying on consent, this needs to be freely given and capable of being withdrawn without detriment”.
One privacy compliance question to consider, then, is can consent be freely given if people are being encouraged to hand over their biometrics in exchange for a token which is being presented as a form of virtual currency?
Fast forward a few days and France’s data protection authority, the CNIL, has followed the ICO’s remarks with even more specific expressions of concern, as first reported by Reuters — out-and-out questioning the legality of what Worldcoin is doing. The French authority also revealed it’s already been actively investigating Worldcoin.
“The legality of [Worldcoin’s data] collection seems questionable, as do the conditions for storing biometric data,” a CNIL spokesperson confirmed by email, adding: “Worldcoin collected data in France, and the CNIL initiated investigations.”
Per the CNIL, the investigation it started has been passed to Bavaria’s DPA — after it found the German state authority was Worldcoin’s lead data supervisor in the EU (owing, presumably, to Worldcoin having a subsidiary in the German state). It added that it is providing support to Bavaria’s probe “under the mutual assistance procedure” in EU law.
The bloc’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) — a pan-EU law which is still baked into legacy U.K. data protection rules (hence the ICO sharing the same sort of concerns as EU peers) — contains a mechanism called the One-Stop-Shop that’s intended to streamline regulatory oversight in instances where concerns cut across Member State borders, as here. Or at least when the data processor in question has a main establishment in the EU, as Worldcoin apparently does.
In this scenario the data controller only needs to liaise with a single lead DPA. And in Worldcoin’s case that’s apparently the state of Bavaria’s DPA.
We contacted the Bavarian authority with questions about the investigation. But a spokesperson told us that because it’s an ongoing procedure it’s unable to go into details. (They did confirm one of the first aspects it will look at, out of a range of “many” questions, is the obligation to carry out a data protection impact assessment — which they said “should provide a clear analysis of the impact of the envisaged processing operations on the protection of personal data and the safeguards in place to address these risks”.)
We’ve also reached out to Spain’s DPA to ask if it shares its peers concerns about Worldcoin’s data processing in that EU market and will update this report with any response.
On the legality point, the GDPR classes biometric data that’s used for the purpose of identification — which is exactly what the Worldcoin project intends — as so-called “special category data”. This type of (very sensitive) data has the strictest rules for legal processing.
A spokeswoman for Tools For Humanity, the for-profit technology company that led the development of Worldcoin and operates the World App, confirmed to TechCrunch that consent is the lawful basis being claimed for processing Europeans biometrics data. “Under GDPR, the project relies on the users’ consent for creating the proof of personhood and for opting into data custody,” she told us.
She also pointed us to Worldcoin’s biometric data consent form and privacy notice — documents that run to almost 3,800 words and almost 3,400 words, respectively.
Since Worldcoin is relying on people’s consent to process their special category data, under EU law it must meet an even higher bar — of explicit consent — in order for this processing to be lawful. This means the description shown to, er, eyeball providers before their biometrics are harvested must be extremely clear and specific about what the processing is for. And let’s just say that achieving the highest bar for clarity when you’re presenting individuals with circa 7,000 words of legalese while simultaneously telling them they’ll get a bunch of crypto if they do the scan looks challenging to say the least. (NB: Consent under EU law must also be freely given.)
Even the governance structure of Worldcoin, a decentralized cryptocurrency project, looks hella complicated for people to even understand who they’re giving their data to.
Asked whether Worldcoin is a for-profit or not-for-profit entity the spokeswoman for Tools For Humanity (which is the entity that has so far responded to queries we’ve directed to Worldcoin’s press email) could not provide a straight answer — because there simply isn’t one. Worldcoin’s organizational structure and decentralized governance does not lend itself to a simple yes or not. But she did confirm that Tools for Humanity (and its German subsidiary), aka the Worldcoin developer, is a for-profit tech company.
The other (main) involved entities are the Worldcoin Foundation and the Worldcoin Protocol, which she suggested are not for-profit entities. A disclosure on Worldcoin’s website states: “The Worldcoin Foundation is an exempted limited guarantee foundation company, which is a type of non-profit, incorporated in the Cayman Islands.” So, er, it’s a “type” of non-profit then with for-profit subsidiaries? (For the lolz we asked ChatGPT what an “exempted limited guarantee foundation company” is and OpenAI’s chatbot responded by telling us that, as of its data training cut-off data in September 2021, “there is no widely recognized legal structure or term known [as that]”.)
Then there’s the question of who is actually processing the data — and thus legally responsible for not breaching EU data protection law? Worldcoin’s biometric consent form appears to list the Cayman Islands-based Worldcoin Foundation as the data controller of “your images and biometric data collected through our Orb”.
We asked Tools for Humanity’s spokeswoman to confirm this and she stipulated that the data controller “now” is the Worldcoin Foundation, with Tools For Humanity being a data processor for Worldcoin. (Albeit, the fact Bavaria’s DPA is leading the investigation into the project suggests Tools for Humanity’s German subsidiary plays a significant role in processing people’s data.)
Another question and potential red flag vis-a-vis GDPR compliance pops up if you eyeball the summary section of the Worldcoin biometric data consent form — which contains a bolded warning that people who “sign-up with an Orb” (i.e. have their biometric data harvested) won’t be able to have their personal data deleted after this step. (“[W]e will create a unique Iris Code (as defined below) that cannot be deleted anymore (if we were to delete it, the proof of uniqueness would not work),” Worldcoin writes.)
Thing is, the GDPR gives Europeans a suite of data access rights over their personal data, including the right to ask for it to be deleted. Saying that deletions aren’t possible isn’t going to cut it. The regulation also broadly defines personal data, as information that could identify a natural person (including when combined with other data), so trying to claim the “unique Iris Code” derived from the biometric scan isn’t personal data to avoid the need to comply with deletion requests seems unlikely to fly with regulators.
All in all, it’s easy to see why European privacy watchdogs have so quickly mobilized to express and act on concerns. Although it remains to be seen how fast regulators might move to enforcement if concerns are stood up.
Asked about the DPAs’ activity, Tools For Humanity’s spokeswoman claimed the Worldcoin project complies with all applicable laws (albeit, in some US states that means residents are outright barred from being scanned owing to local laws limiting biometric data processing. “You cannot provide your biometric information at the Orb if you are a resident of the state of Illinois, Texas, or Washington or the cities of Portland, Oregon or Baltimore, Maryland,” notes Worldcoin’s consent form).
She also confirmed that Worldcoin has undertaken a data protection impact assessment — which she described as having been “rigorously” conducted.
In further remarks emailed to us today after we asked for Worldcoin’s response to the Bavarian DPA’s investigation, the Tools For Humanity spokeswoman added:
Worldcoin was designed to protect individual privacy and has built a robust privacy program. The Worldcoin Foundation complies with all laws and regulations governing the processing of personal data in the markets where Worldcoin is available, including the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”). In the European Union, the project is under the supervision of the Bavarian State Office for Data Protection Supervision (Bayerisches Landesamt für Datenschutz). The project will continue to cooperate with governing bodies on requests for more information about its privacy and data protection practices. We are committed to working with our partners across Europe to ensure that the Worldcoin project meets regulatory requirements and provides a safe, secure, and transparent service for verified humans.
Worldcoin, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s bid to sew up the market for verifying humanness by convincing enough mobile meatsacks to have their eyeballs scanned in exchanged for crypto tokens (yes, really), only started its official global rollout this week but it’s already landed on the radar of European data protection authorities. Why should anyone feel
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The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.
Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.
Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.
Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.
In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.
Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.
These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.
As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.
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How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.
The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.
Economic Tremors
Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.
Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.
Community Fabric Under Strain
Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.
Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.
Cities at a Crossroads
As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.
Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.
Looking Ahead
As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.
What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.
As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.
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Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election
Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:
Electoral College Victory
Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.
Battleground State Performance
Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:
- Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
- Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
- Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
- Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Popular Vote and Voter Priorities
While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:
- Economy and democracy were top concerns for voters.
- Abortion and immigration also played significant roles in voter decision-making.
Congressional Control
The election results extend beyond the presidency:
- Republicans are set to take back the Senate majority, securing at least 51 seats.
- Control of the House of Representatives remains undetermined.
Media Implications
The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:
- Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
- Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
- Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
- Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
- Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.
It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.
As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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