Retina Scan for Rp500,000 in Depok: Don’t Be Deceived

Recently, social media and news platforms have been buzzing about retina scan activities in Depok that offer cash rewards ranging from Rp500,000 to Rp800,000 per person. This activity is claimed to be part of the Worldcoin project, which offers a “global digital identity” in exchange for crypto tokens.

Although it may sound appealing, it’s crucial for the public not to recklessly give away their biometric data just for the promise of money. This article provides a detailed overview of the case.

What Is Worldcoin and Retina Scanning?

Worldcoin is a global project spearheaded by Sam Altman (CEO of OpenAI) aiming to create a universal digital identity system, especially for populations without formal identification documents.

The process is carried out using a futuristic, metallic orb-shaped device called The Orb, which scans a person’s retina or iris. The data is then transformed into a “hash code” used to generate a World ID essentially a unique digital identity and grants access to a crypto token called Worldcoin (WLD).

However, despite claims of security, the system has stirred major controversy in several countries, including Indonesia.

1. Privacy and Biometric Data Security Risks

Biometric data such as retina scan, fingerprints, and facial recognition represent forms of identity that cannot be changed. If this data is leaked or misused, you can’t simply “reset” your retina like you would a password or phone number.

Key risks to be aware of include:

Digital identity theft: Retina data can be used for fraudulent verification in the future.
Storage in foreign servers: It’s unclear whether the data is stored locally or on servers subject to foreign laws.
Lack of control and transparency: You don’t know who accesses, stores, or uses the data and for what purposes.

Although Worldcoin claims the data is encrypted, there is no full guarantee that the system cannot be breached or misused for other purposes.

2. No Official Permit in Indonesia

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications and Digital has stated that Worldcoin and WorldID activities have no official permit in the country and have been temporarily suspended. The local operator, PT Terang Bulan Abadi, is not registered as an Electronic System Provider (PSE) under the Personal Data Protection Law (UU PDP).

Implications include:

No legal protection for individuals who submit their data.
If violations occur, it would be difficult for individuals to seek legal recourse due to the lack of regulatory oversight.
The government has not approved Worldcoin’s business model as its benefits and impacts on citizens remain unclear.

This shows that even the government doubts the security and feasibility of this program for Indonesian citizens.

3. Lack of Digital Literacy: The Danger Behind Instant Cash

Field observations indicate that most participants in the retina scanning program are only lured by the immediate cash reward. Many are unaware of what Worldcoin is, how their data is used, or the associated risks.

Examples of dangers due to lack of education:

People don’t read the terms & conditions.
They don’t realize that biometric data is permanent and cannot be retrieved.
They unknowingly give up rights to their personal data.

This is why digital education is vital. Temporary rewards do not outweigh the long-term consequences if personal data falls into the wrong hands.

4. Why We Should Be Cautious and Not Easily Tempted

Not all new technologies provide immediate benefits, especially when they involve opaque practices. We live in an era where data is the most valuable asset. Many companies are willing to pay top dollar for access to user data.

We must understand that:

Instant rewards are often used to exploit the public’s lack of awareness.
Personal data can be used for political, financial manipulation, or fraud.
Once leaked, biometric data cannot be retrieved.

Conclusion

The public must remain vigilant and not be easily tempted by seemingly lucrative short-term rewards. Personal data is ours, and it should not be traded for money without serious consideration, especially when it comes to biometric data like retina scan, which are permanent and cannot be altered. By understanding the risks and thinking long-term, we can better protect ourselves from potential misuse in the future.