TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Minister of Communication and Digital (Komdigi), Meutya Viada Hafid, stated that the World App, also known as Worldcoin, has been suspended. This cryptocurrency management application has been offering cash rewards ranging from Rp200,000 to Rp800,000 to individuals in exchange for retina scans.
The Ministry, she said, took immediate action after observing numerous social media posts showing large numbers of people queuing for retina scans using specialized devices.
"Regarding Worldcoin, based on public feedback and an initial finding, [we find that] their permits are not in order," Meutya stated, as reported by Antara on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
Meutya clarified that the Komdigi Ministry has not yet met with representatives from World App. However, a meeting is scheduled for the following week to gain clarity on their operational permits and the purpose of the retina scans conducted on Indonesian users who have downloaded the application.
"Following this, we will issue summons, potentially next week, and then assess the overall situation," she explained.
According to the Komdigi Ministry's initial findings, Meutya added that World App is facing similar challenges in several other countries, not just in Indonesia.
"This is not only a domestic issue. We are aware that other nations are also taking decisive measures against this application," she noted.
Furthermore, Meutya emphasized that the ministry will maintain the freeze on World App operations until a satisfactory explanation is provided. "If they cannot provide clear clarification, we will stop this app operation," she asserted.
Separately, the Chairperson of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) Board of Commissioners, Mahendra Siregar, stated that World App currently lacks the necessary operational permits and poses potential risks. Consequently, its activities will be temporarily suspended.
"Given the risks associated with its operations and the lack of clear operational permits from any institution, we have collaborated with the police to request a suspension of their activities," he affirmed.
Adi Warsono contributed to the writing of this article.
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