In an increasingly digital world, where cybercrime has grown exponentially in Latin America, a new technology promises to mark a before and after in the fight against hackers. It is about World ID and its network of ORB devices, capable of combining sophisticated algorithms artificial intelligence and biometrics to authenticate the identity of users, preserving their anonymity.
A revolution in digital security
With more than 15 million registered users worldwidethis network aspires to be an insurmountable barrier for cybercriminals. In Latin America, where cases of digital fraud increased by 30% in the last year according to regional data, World ID could reduce these numbers by restricting the mass creation of fake accounts, a common practice used in digital scams.
Adrian Ludwig, Chief Information Security Officer de Worldcoin, explica: ”One of the reasons cybercrime has been so successful is because it is not connected to anything real. Criminals create fake account after fake account to hide and commit their crimes. “With this tool, we can drastically limit this ability and therefore reduce cybercrime success rates.”
Explore a map that shows how the World Network is helping to combat cybercrime in Latin America. Discover the countries with the highest adoption of ORB and how this technology is reducing digital fraud in real time.
Security layers explained
For the non-technical, think of the ORB as a smart lock that does not store users’ images, but rather an encrypted summary of their biometric characteristics. This “summary” is like a puzzle that is never stored complete in one place. Thus, even if a hacker tried to gain access, they would need to simultaneously breach several layers of security, something virtually impossible with current technology.
Ludwig details how information is protected: ”The ORB takes several images to generate the iris code, but does not save any of them. Instead, it encrypts them and delivers them to the user. “It is a system designed to guarantee privacy, where no part of the system can access the entire data simultaneously.”
Practical applications in Latin America
One of the most innovative aspects of this technology is its versatility. From authentication on online banking platforms to preventing bots on social networks and forums, ORB could become an essential tool to protect digital interaction.
In countries like Peru, where alliances with local governments and companies are planned, World ID could be integrated with national credentials such as driver’s licenses or passports. This would allow the identity of citizens to be verified more efficiently and securely, without compromising their privacy.
”Our intention is for these credentials to be a general-purpose capability. It’s not just about safety; “We want to offer an inclusive solution that allows people to access digital services safely and with complete anonymity,” assures Ludwig.
Towards inclusive cybersecurity
The company has also announced plans to launch more devices in strategic locations, such as markets and shopping malls, and offer on-demand verifications through mobile apps. This democratizes access to cutting-edge technologies and could close the digital divide in vulnerable communities.
Alliances with companies
Worldcoin has established strategic alliances with various companies to expand its reach and functionality in Latin America. A notable collaboration is with Rapthe main delivery platform in the region. Starting in the first quarter of 2025, Rappi will distribute Worldcoin ORB devices at home in Argentina, allowing users to complete the verification process from their homes.
Additionally, Worldcoin has partnered with Alchemy a web3 development platform, to provide the necessary infrastructure for World Chain, the new blockchain designed for humans. This collaboration offers developers access to a complete platform of APIs and tools to build decentralized applications.
Another significant alliance is with Dune Analytics with the aim of improving data transparency and accessibility in World Chain. This collaboration provides additional tools and access to relevant information for blockchain users.
These partnerships reflect Worldcoin’s commitment to integrating its technology into various sectors and facilitating its adoption in the daily lives of users in Latin America.