 |
| Image source: Bitcoin World |
In a surprising move this week, China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) issued a public warning to its citizens about foreign crypto projects offering free tokens in exchange for iris scans. The statement, posted on the ministry’s official WeChat account, quickly sparked discussions across Chinese social media platforms.
While the government didn’t directly name the company, the description sounded very similar to the operations of World Network, a global crypto initiative previously known as Worldcoin. This project has gained attention for using shiny metal “Orbs” to scan people’s eyes and reward them with digital tokens.
Why China Is Concerned
For the average person, an iris scan might seem harmless. But experts point out that your iris is one of the most unique identifiers in the human body, even more secure than a fingerprint. Once it’s scanned and stored, it can potentially be used to track or verify your identity forever.
The Chinese government expressed worry that this data could leave the country and end up in foreign databases, creating a national security risk. Officials also warned citizens to be cautious of any platforms promising “free cryptocurrency” in exchange for sensitive personal information.
A Pattern Seen Worldwide
This isn’t the first time biometric crypto projects have faced criticism. Around the world, privacy watchdogs and regulators have been skeptical of how these companies handle personal data.
-
Hong Kong banned local iris‑scanning operations earlier this year, citing weak privacy protections.
-
Kenya and Indonesia temporarily stopped the project’s activities due to public concern.
-
Even in Europe, regulators in countries like Germany and France have raised questions about how safely this sensitive information is stored.
The core issue is trust. People are naturally curious about earning crypto rewards, but many feel uneasy handing over something as personal as an iris scan.
Crypto in China: A Complex Landscape
China has banned crypto trading and mining since 2021, but holding cryptocurrencies privately is still technically allowed. This latest advisory doesn’t introduce new bans but sends a clear signal: crypto projects that involve personal data will face heavy scrutiny.
Interestingly, while the mainland remains strict, Hong Kong is actively exploring regulated crypto markets and even stablecoins. The difference shows how China is trying to balance innovation and security, keeping tight control on the mainland while using Hong Kong as a testing ground for financial technology.
The Bigger Picture
China’s warning reflects a growing global conversation about the intersection of cryptocurrency, privacy, and personal identity. As digital currencies continue to evolve, projects that rely on sensitive data will need to earn public trust with strong privacy protections and clear transparency.
For now, the message from Chinese authorities is simple: Your biometric data is priceless. Think twice before trading it for free crypto.
0 Comments