New Cryptocurrency Worldcoin Awards Free Tokens for Scanning Eyeballs – Kenyans Go Crazy!
A new cryptocurrency has taken the internet by storm as it offers free tokens in exchange for scanning users’ eyeballs to verify their humanity. Kenyans, in particular, are going crazy over this innovative concept. Worldcoin, the cryptocurrency in question, was recently launched on July 24th, and it rewards users with free tokens, known as WLD, once they verify their identity by scanning their eyeballs. This process takes place using machines located in specified places across 35 countries, including Kenya.
Once verified, users can transfer these tokens to official crypto exchanges like Binance and use them to purchase other cryptocurrencies. The acquired cryptocurrencies can then be cashed out through liquidity agents on those platforms or sold to other users, effectively turning these free tokens into real money. Currently, the first 25 free WLD tokens are valued at approximately Sh7,786.
One enthusiastic user, James Makau, a bodaboda rider from Ruaka, proudly displayed the Sh6,461 he earned after signing up and scanning his iris. Makau used his free tokens to purchase USDT, another popular cryptocurrency, which he eventually sold for Kenya shillings.
The excitement surrounding Worldcoin reached new heights on Friday when hundreds of Kenyans flocked to 13 Quickmart outlets in Nairobi, hoping to scan their eyeballs and claim the free tokens offered by the platform. Quickmart outlets house the unique eye scanning machines, known as Orbs, which are currently stationed in Kenya.
As our team arrived at the Quickmart Thome outlet along Northern bypass, we found young individuals in their twenties and thirties patiently waiting to be attended to. Brian Mwangi, a Kiambu resident, shared that he arrived at 5 am to secure a spot, motivated by the buzz on TikTok and Instagram about the free money Worldcoin is offering to those who download their app and subscribe. Others echoed similar sentiments, stating that the idea of receiving ‘free’ money for simply scanning their iris was an opportunity too good to pass up.
Worldcoin was co-founded by Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, a text-based artificial intelligence platform. Altman’s vision for Worldcoin is to provide access to the global economy for everyone on Earth, offering them a verified digital identity, free cryptocurrency tokens, and a crypto wallet.
The concept behind Worldcoin was to create a digital currency that is inclusive and accessible to people worldwide, regardless of their socioeconomic status or access to traditional banking systems. Altman and co-founder Alex Blania explained that technological advancements in artificial intelligence have made it increasingly difficult to differentiate between real human activity and AI-generated activity. Consequently, the proof of personhood through retinal scans became necessary to verify users’ identities.
Worldcoin’s verification process involves scanning users’ irises to create personal, secure identification codes known as World ID. These codes are then stored on a decentralized blockchain. The company claims that these codes cannot be duplicated or spoofed, thereby preventing the creation of false identities or fraudulent behavior.
Altman expressed his hopes for the project, stating, The goal is simple: A global financial and identity network based on proof of personhood. This feels especially important in the AI era. I’m hopeful Worldcoin can contribute to conversations about how we share access, benefits, and governance of future AI systems.
However, the question remains whether those who verify their identity with Worldcoin truly have nothing to lose, as many believe. Even Worldcoin and its founders acknowledge that the journey ahead is challenging, and the outcome remains uncertain. The cautionary statement by the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) advises Kenyans against sharing their sensitive personal data without receiving proper information on how it will be used.
In conclusion, Worldcoin’s unique approach to cryptocurrency has captured the attention of Kenyans, who eagerly embrace the opportunity to earn free tokens by simply scanning their eyeballs. While the concept presents an exciting prospect, it is crucial for users to exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with sharing personal data. Only time will tell how successful Worldcoin will be in its mission to provide a global financial and identity network based on the proof of personhood through retinal scans.
