Thailand’s SEC and Cyber Crime Bureau raid a World iris scanning center, accusing the Sam Altman–backed project of operating unlicensed WLD token services.
The World digital identity project, led by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has come under fire again — this time in Thailand, where regulators raided a facility allegedly operating unlicensed WLD token exchange services.
The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), in collaboration with the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), confirmed on Friday that the operation targeted one of the World iris scanning sites connected to WLD token distribution.
World Accused of Operating Without a License
According to the Thai SEC’s statement, investigators discovered evidence suggesting that WLD exchange services were being conducted without the necessary local digital asset license. The agencies arrested suspects believed to be managing the site, with further enforcement actions now pending.
“The investigator has arrested suspects for committing the offense, subject to further relevant law enforcement proceedings,” the SEC said.
World’s WLD token is distributed to verified World ID users who scan their irises through proprietary “orb” devices — biometric scanners that confirm a person’s unique identity on the blockchain.
Data from the project’s website indicates that Thailand hosts 102 orb locations, making it one of the most active regions for World’s verification program.
World Responds to Legal Concerns
A spokesperson for World maintains that WLD token distribution only occurs in jurisdictions where regulations permit it.
“Eligibility for WLD tokens is restricted based on geography, age, and other factors,” the company explains on its website, adding that it is not responsible for third-party platforms offering or trading WLD.
Thailand’s raid underscores ongoing global unease over biometric data use and the regulatory gray areas surrounding token-based incentive systems.
As governments tighten oversight of digital identity and cryptocurrency projects, World’s model — merging biometrics with crypto rewards — faces mounting legal tests that could shape its future expansion strategy.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.