This FAQ covers the essentials of Worldcoin, its technology, functionality, and the controversies surrounding it. Whether you're curious about its purpose, how to get involved, or how it compares to other crypto projects, find clear, concise answers here.

What is Worldcoin?

Worldcoin is a global cryptocurrency and identity project that aims to create a widely distributed digital currency and a decentralized identity network, using iris scanning to verify uniqueness.

Launched in 2023 by Tools for Humanity, co-founded by Sam Altman, the project distributes its native token (WLD) to users in exchange for verifying their humanness through the World ID system. The core idea is to establish a universal basic income (UBI) mechanism and provide a secure way to distinguish humans from AI in an increasingly automated world.

How does Worldcoin work?

Worldcoin operates on two main components: the World ID and the WLD token, both built on the Ethereum blockchain.

  • World ID: This is a digital identity that proves you are a unique human without revealing personal information. It's created by scanning your iris with a device called the Orb. The scan generates a unique hash that is stored on the blockchain.
  • WLD Token: Once you have a World ID, you can claim regular WLD token grants. The token can be used for transactions, and the project's long-term goal is to enable a form of universal basic income.

The system uses zero-knowledge proofs to ensure privacy, so the iris scan data is not stored directly but used to create a cryptographic proof of uniqueness.

What is the Worldcoin Orb and how does it work?

The Orb is a biometric verification device used by Worldcoin to scan an individual's iris, creating a unique identifier that ensures each person can only have one World ID.

When you use the Orb, it captures a high-resolution image of your iris, which is then encrypted and processed to generate a unique iris code. This code is not stored in raw form but as a hash on the blockchain. The Orb's purpose is to solve the 'one person, one account' problem in digital identity, without requiring any personal information like name, email, or phone number.

Orbs are located in various public places around the world, and you can also request a visit from a mobile Orb if one isn't nearby.

How do I get a Worldcoin ID and claim WLD tokens?

To get a World ID and claim WLD tokens, you need to locate a Worldcoin Orb, visit it, and complete an iris scan.

  1. Find an Orb: Check the official Worldcoin website or app for locations near you.
  2. Visit the Orb: Bring your smartphone and download the World App. The Orb will guide you through the scanning process.
  3. Scan your iris: The Orb will capture your iris image, generate your unique World ID, and store it on the blockchain.
  4. Claim your WLD: After verification, you can claim your initial WLD token grant. The amount varies by region and time, but it's typically a small monthly or one-time distribution.

Remember, you only get one World ID per human, so you can't claim multiple times.

Why is Worldcoin controversial?

Worldcoin has faced significant controversy primarily due to privacy concerns regarding the collection of biometric data, regulatory scrutiny, and its ambitious UBI model.

Critics worry about the security of iris scan data and the potential for misuse, even though Worldcoin claims to store only hashes. Several countries, including Spain, Portugal, and Kenya, have temporarily suspended its operations due to these privacy concerns. Additionally, some question the long-term sustainability of funding a universal basic income through a cryptocurrency, and others are wary of the project's centralization through Tools for Humanity.

Despite the backlash, supporters argue that Worldcoin offers a novel solution to digital identity and wealth distribution in the age of AI.

What are the pros and cons of Worldcoin?

Worldcoin offers both potential benefits and significant drawbacks.

Pros:

  • Identity verification: Solves the 'one person, one account' problem, which is crucial for fair airdrops, voting, and preventing bot activity.
  • Privacy-preserving: Uses zero-knowledge proofs to keep iris data private.
  • Universal Basic Income (UBI) potential: Could provide a regular income to people worldwide, especially in developing countries.
  • Inclusive: Aims to be accessible to anyone, regardless of background.

Cons:

  • Privacy risks: Biometric data collection is highly sensitive and could be a target for hackers.
  • Regulatory hurdles: Faces bans and restrictions in several countries, limiting its global adoption.
  • Centralization concerns: The project is controlled by a private company, which contradicts the decentralized ethos of crypto.
  • Uncertain value: The WLD token's value is volatile and its long-term viability is unproven.

How does Worldcoin compare to other crypto identity projects like Civic or SelfKey?

Worldcoin differs from other identity projects like Civic or SelfKey by using biometric data (iris scans) and focusing on universal basic income, whereas others rely on document verification and personal data.

Civic and SelfKey are decentralized identity platforms that allow users to verify their identity through traditional means (e.g., government-issued IDs) and share that verification selectively. They aim to reduce identity theft and streamline KYC processes for financial services.

Worldcoin's unique selling point is its proof-of-personhood approach, which doesn't require any personal information, only an iris scan. It also has a token distribution model intended to create a UBI, which is not part of Civic's or SelfKey's goals. In practice, Worldcoin is more about rewarding users with tokens, while Civic and SelfKey are more about enabling secure access to services.

When was Worldcoin launched and what is its current status?

Worldcoin launched its mainnet and WLD token in July 2023, and as of 2026, it continues to expand despite regulatory challenges.

The project began testnet operations earlier, but the official launch marked the start of global sign-ups. Since then, Worldcoin has faced suspensions in some markets but has also seen growing adoption in others. The WLD token is listed on major exchanges, and the project has introduced updates like World ID 2.0, which enhances privacy and interoperability. The total number of verified users has grown substantially, though exact figures vary.

In 2025, Worldcoin rebranded to 'World' and shifted focus to its identity network, with the token remaining an integral part of the ecosystem. The project continues to be a subject of debate and innovation.

Final Thoughts

Worldcoin is a bold experiment that tackles fundamental questions about identity, wealth distribution, and the future of human-AI interaction. Its success hinges on balancing innovation with privacy and regulatory compliance.

While the project has made strides in user adoption, it remains controversial. Whether you see it as a revolutionary step toward UBI or a privacy nightmare, Worldcoin is undoubtedly a project to watch in the coming years.

As with any crypto venture, do your own research before participating.