Kenya's Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has concluded its investigation into Worldcoin, a controversial crypto project that was suspended in the country last year. The DCI found no evidence of wrongdoing and has recommended that Worldcoin resume operations in Kenya, provided it follows certain steps.

Background

Worldcoin, a digital ID system that uses iris scans to verify users are human, not AI bots, was suspended in Kenya in August 2023 over concerns related to its data collection practices. The project had already drawn regulatory scrutiny elsewhere before Kenya raised concerns.

Investigation and Findings

The DCI conducted a thorough investigation into various allegations concerning Worldcoin's operations in Kenya, including claims of illegal gathering and transfer of sensitive personal data. The findings were then submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for independent review and guidance.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Director of Public Prosecutions concurred with the DCI's findings and directed that the file be closed with no further police action. The DCI director, Hillary Mutai, signed a letter stating that Worldcoin can now resume operations in Kenya, provided it properly registers the business with the country's Registrar of Business Registry, coordinates with the Data Protection Commission to obtain necessary licenses, and ensures all its third-party vendors within the country are thoroughly vetted and legally contracted.

Reaction

Thomas Scott, chief legal officer at Tools for Humanity, which is behind Worldcoin, expressed gratitude for the DCI's fair investigation and the Director of Public Prosecutions' determination to close the matter. He noted that this welcome result is not an end but a beginning and that Worldcoin hopes to resume World ID registration across the country soon.

Impact

The suspension of Worldcoin's operations in Kenya had led to a surge in enrollment before the program was halted. The Worldcoin's ID verification service in Kenya became so popular that it led to queues stretching for three days. The resumption of operations is expected to have a significant impact on the project's growth and adoption in the country.