Spain: Issued AEPD order imposing a temporary ban on Worldcoin's data processing activities

On 6 March 2024, the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) issued an order imposing a temporary ban on Worldcoin's data processing activities in Spain. The AEPD demanded Tools for Humanity Corporation, the main developer of Worldcoin, to stop the collection and processing of sensitive personal data, as well as the blocking of data it already collected. The order was issued after AEPD received several complaints against Worldcoin, citing issues such as insufficient information, data collection from minors, and the inability to withdraw consent. The AEPD's action is based on exceptional circumstances requiring immediate cessation of data processing to prevent potential data transfer to third parties and to safeguard the fundamental right to personal data protection. The temporary ban has a maximum validity period of three months.