Indonesia Freezes World's Operating License
On May 5, 2025, the Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital announced the temporary suspension of the Electronic System Organizer Registration Certificate (TDPSE) for World (formerly Worldcoin) and its Worldid services, citing alleged violations of electronic system implementation regulations. The ministry also stated it would immediately summon two entities linked to World's operations in Indonesia—PT. Terang Bulan Abadi and PT. Sandina Abadi Nusantara—to provide clarifications.
Violation Details: Use of Another Entity's Identity
According to Director General of Digital Space Supervision Alexander Sabar, preliminary investigations found that PT. Terang Bulan Abadi, directly involved in World's operations, was not only unregistered as an Electronic System Organizer (PSE) but also lacked the mandatory TDPSE certificate. More critically, World was accused of using the TDPSE registered under a different legal entity—PT. Sandina Abadi Nusantara—to conduct its services. Sabar emphasized that “non-compliance with registration obligations and the use of another legal entity's identity for digital services constitutes a serious violation.” The license freeze is a preventive measure to mitigate potential risks to the public.
Growing Global Regulatory Scrutiny
World has faced regulatory challenges worldwide due to its iris-scanning technology and cryptocurrency distribution model. In Europe, France and Germany have launched investigations into the legality and security of its biometric data collection; the UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) is examining its compliance with GDPR. In August 2023, Kenya suspended World's operations over data privacy issues and lack of a regulatory framework—a suspension still in effect. In the United States, while no nationwide ban exists, the project's unique approach has raised concerns among lawmakers and privacy advocates.
The Indonesian ministry reiterated its commitment to maintaining a secure digital environment. Sabar urged the public to stay vigilant and report any unauthorized digital services. Indonesia's regulations, specifically Government Regulation No. 71 of 2019 and Ministry of Communication and Information Regulation No. 10 of 2021, mandate that all digital service providers be legally registered. This incident underscores the intensifying global focus on biometric data privacy and cryptocurrency regulation.