Worldcoin, the crypto project offering free coins in exchange for iris scans, is facing a new hurdle in Argentina. An Argentinian lawmaker, Carlos Puglelli, has drafted a bill proposing regulations for Worldcoin and similar data-collecting companies.

This move comes just days after Worldcoin announced expansion plans in Mexico, where lawmakers have also expressed concerns.

Concerns About Unclear Data Practices

Puglelli, along with others, is skeptical about Worldcoin's handling of user data. They question what happens to the biometric information collected through iris-scanning devices. The proposed bill aims to:

Regulate companies that collect biometric data through iris scans.

Grant Buenos Aires authorities control over such activities.

Increase transparency on how user data is handled by companies like Worldcoin.

Growing Scrutiny in Argentina

Puglelli's bill isn't the first challenge Worldcoin has faced in Argentina. Here's a timeline of past events:

Mid-April: Another Buenos Aires lawmaker, Romina Braga, called for an official investigation into Worldcoin, citing privacy concerns.

January: Argentina's national data protection agency launched its own investigation.

Regulation: A Global Trend?

Puglelli's bill proposes a regulatory framework for biometric data collection, with penalties for misuse. If passed, the Provincial Directorate for the Defense of Consumer Rights and Users would oversee Worldcoin's operations.

Public Enthusiasm vs. Regulatory Hurdles

While thousands of Argentinians have already shared their iris data with Worldcoin, lawmakers are raising red flags. They point out that Worldcoin:

Lacks legal status in Argentina.

Collects biometric data in a way that raises privacy concerns.

Worldcoin's Global Struggle

Argentina isn't alone in questioning Worldcoin's practices. Similar concerns and investigations have emerged in:

* Mexico

* Chile

* Portugal

* Spain

* Germany

* France

* South Korea

* Hong Kong

Will Worldcoin Adapt?

Only time will tell if Argentina's proposed bill will be adopted and how Worldcoin will respond to this growing global scrutiny. The company needs to address data privacy concerns to gain wider acceptance and avoid further regulatory roadblocks.