- Worldcoin launched in Kenya on Monday, July 24, luring Kenyans to scan their eyeballs for free 25WLD coins equivalent to KSh 7,000
- Office of Data Protection Commission Kenya warned against the new craze, urging Kenyans to be vigilant not to lose their personal data
- The Kenyan government suspended the activities of Tools for Humanity (TFH), a company that operates Worldcoin, until investigations into data privacy are conducted
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Nairobi - Kenyans have shared an epic barrage of side-splitting memes aimed at the thousands who eagerly signed up for the latest crypto craze, Worldcoin.
Over 35,000 Kenyans signed up for Worldcoin
As the token's hype reached a fever pitch, social media platforms were flooded with a glorious assortment of rib-tickling GIFs, images, and witty captions poking fun at the crypto enthusiasts.
To sign up for Worldcoin, thousands of Kenyans scanned their irises using special devices called Orbs1.
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However, some netizens ridiculed the idea of exchanging their biometric data for a few coins. They comically noted that those who signed up for the free tokens would go blind.
"Zikizimwa nitafute nikuzungushange tao," (If you lose your eyesight look for me, I will be your guide in town), quipped a Twitter user.
Concerns were also raised about the security and privacy of Worldcoin, with users questioning how the project would safeguard their personal data from hackers and governments.
TUKO.co.ke compiled hilarious memes shared online.
1. Crypto craze in Kenya
Worldcoin has reached millions of subscribers in the rush to earn 1WLD weekly token.
"Worldcoin is giving away a further 25WLD every week in what they are calling a Worldcoin Grant. Which means Kenyans can cash in KSh 7,000 every week," read part of a tweet thread on Worldcoin.
2. What is Worldcoin?
Worldcoin is a cryptocurrency initiative with the mission of creating a globally-inclusive identity and financial network, owned by the majority of humanity.
The identity is achieved by scanning iris biometrics (eyeballs) for personal data that prove personhood globally.
3. Converting Worldcoin tokens to KSh
On Wednesday, August 2, thousands of Kenyans who had signed up after the crypto craze took over had not been able to convert their free tokens.
Majority did not know how to convert the coins to Kenya shilling, a move that prompted cryptocurrency traders in the country to take advantage.
4. Why Kenyan government suspended Worldcoin
Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kithure Kindiki said investigations are ongoing to ascertain the authenticity of the entity.
Kindiki, in a statement, noted that relevant investigative agencies were investigating the operations to ascertain how the data collected would be used
5. Worldcoin pauses operations in Kenya
Alex Blania, Worldcoin CEO, revealed that the entity was engaging relevant authorities in the country and hopes to resume operations after suspension.
"Tools for Humanity (TFH) has paused World ID verifications in Kenya as we continue to work with local regulators to address their questions. We apologize to everyone in Kenya for the delay. We look forward to resuming operations while continuing global rollout," said Blania.
6. Free weekly tokens
Worldcoin offers 25WLD or $50 (KSh 7,000) tokens every week to everyone who registers and guarantees the security of the data they provide.
Market Manager for TFH in support of Worldcoin East Africa Wangechi Mwangi welcomed the move saying Worldcoin allows Kenyans to learn more about cutting-edge financial and identity products.
7. Data protection
The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has called on Kenyans to exercise vigilance as they allow their biometrics to be captured by Worldcoin.
The ODPC now urges the citizenry to familiarise itself with how the platform works and how the data they give about themselves will be used before going ahead to prove themselves as humans.
Andrew Kibe cautions Kenyans against Worldcoin
Media personality Andrew Kibe voiced his concerns with the growing popularity of Worldcoin in Kenya.
The former radio show host emphasised the need for Kenyans to exercise caution when encountering overly attractive deals. He urged Kenyans not to fall into scams.
He said that genuine opportunities to earn money come through hard work.
"What small brain do you have that you think there is a place you can go and make money off the internet just like that?" he posed.
In a YouTube video, Kibe offered advice to Kenyans, warning them against falling victim to cryptocurrency scams.
"Are you stupid? Games za pata potea zimepelekwa kwa internet," Kibe lashed out at those who had signed up for Worldcoin.
See the video below:
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