In response to mounting scrutiny, Worldcoin has rolled out enhanced privacy features, including the introduction of iris code deletion and the implementation of Personal Custody, aiming to bolster user privacy and data security within its digital identity ecosystem.

The groundbreaking initiative, which initially entailed the issuance of digital World IDs following iris scans to verify individual identities, has garnered a substantial user base, with close to five million individuals registering under the system.

In an effort to address prevailing privacy concerns, Worldcoin (WLD) has now introduced the option for users to permanently delete their 'iris code,' a distinctive numeric representation of their iris texture.

In a recent blog post, the project stated, "Now, World ID holders possess even greater autonomy with the ability to unverify their World ID."

This strategic decision underscores Worldcoin's ongoing commitment to assuage privacy apprehensions while advancing its vision of establishing a robust digital identity framework capable of affirming personhood in an era dominated by artificial intelligence.

To address growing privacy apprehensions, Worldcoin has introduced the innovative concept of Personal Custody, enabling new users to store their data on personal devices. This feature provides an additional layer of security by offering users the option to opt out of data encryption and storage facilitated by Worldcoin.

Moreover, the project has instituted in-person age verification procedures for individuals above the age of 18 and has collaborated with third-party privacy experts to refine these novel measures.

Elaborating on the new developments, the Worldcoin team elaborated, "The individual's World ID will be rendered invalid, triggering a six-month 'cool-off' period."

This interim duration is strategically designed to thwart potential instances of fraud, ensuring that individuals cannot promptly re-verify their identities. Subsequently, following this cooling-off period, the iris code will be permanently expunged from the system, rendering it irretrievable. This move signifies a significant stride in Worldcoin's unwavering commitment to safeguarding user privacy and fortifying data protection mechanisms.

These measures have been introduced amidst escalating investigations and regulatory pushbacks from various countries, including a probe initiated by South Korea, alongside directives from Spain and Portugal mandating the suspension of biometric data collection practices.