On July 28, 2023, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) issued a statement on LinkedIn regarding Worldcoin Foundation's launch in Kenya. The ODPC highlighted that Worldcoin processes sensitive personal data such as iris data and, as such, appropriate safeguards must be put in place in line with the Data Protection Act, 2019 (the Act). Further, the ODPC noted that it has begun an assessment of the data processing activities of Worldcoin to ensure compliance with the Act. 

The ODPC stated that before disclosing personal or sensitive data, individuals should understand how such data will be used. Furthermore, the ODPC emphasized that organizations must ensure that personal data is processed in accordance with the Act, and failure to do so would not only put individuals' privacy at risk but also expose organizations to legal sanctions. 

You can read the statement here. 

Update: August 3, 2023

ODPC announces suspension of Worldcoin's operations in Kenya

The ODPC stated that preliminary findings had raised several regulatory issues and a comprehensive investigation into Worldcoin is ongoing. Consequently, the ODPC directed Worldcoin to stop its data collection activities in Kenya until further notice. 

In addition, the ODPC invited members of the public to submit information or complaints about Worldcoin to the CA or the ODPC, here and here respectively. 

You can read the statement here.

Update: October 24, 2023

ODPC finds Worldcoin, Tools For Humanity Corporation, and Tools For Humanity GmbH liable for data protection violations

On October 17, 2023, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) published its determination and investigation report in complaint No. 1394 of 2023 as issued on September 6, 2023, in which it found Tools For Humanity Corporation, Tools For Humanity GmbH (together TFH), and Worldcoin Foundation liable for violation of the Data Protection Act, 2019 (the Act) and the Data Protection (General) Regulations, 2021 (the Regulations) following an investigation.

You can read the determination and investigation report here.