Spain has prolonged its prohibition on Worldcoin's activities, led by Tools for Humanity Corporation, until the year's end or until a final decision is reached by the Bavarian Data Protection Authority (BayLDA). This extension follows a precautionary measure issued by the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) in March, instructing Worldcoin to halt the collection and processing of personal data in Spain.

Worldcoin Foundation and Tools for Humanity have not publicly commented on the extension.

Regarding the BayLDA's decision, the AEPD's directive was issued under Article 66.1 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), aimed at protecting individuals' rights and freedoms. Recently, the Spanish National Court upheld the ban and dismissed Worldcoin's appeal, prioritizing personal data protection over the company's interests.

Worldcoin is bound by law to suspend its operations until the BayLDA concludes its investigation. The Bavarian authority, where Worldcoin's primary European office is based, is expected to finalize its inquiry in the coming weeks.

The agreement does not restrict the AEPD or BayLDA from implementing further oversight measures if deemed necessary. The collaboration between these data protection authorities continues, with the AEPD acting as an interested party under the GDPR framework.

Worldcoin has encountered regulatory hurdles since its inception. Initially designed to establish a global identification system using iris scans, the project has faced criticism over privacy issues and potential misuse of biometric data.

Founded by individuals including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Worldcoin aimed to leverage blockchain for universal basic income and financial inclusion. However, concerns about biometric data collection and storage have sparked apprehension among privacy advocates and regulatory bodies worldwide.

Worldcoin has encountered regulatory challenges elsewhere, including bans on its operations in Hong Kong and Kenya, with the latter alleging espionage activities.

The outcome of the BayLDA's decision will be pivotal in determining Worldcoin's future in Spain and potentially across Europe as the company navigates stringent data protection regulations. This case also establishes a precedent for regulating and overseeing emerging technologies involving biometric data within the EU.