In an announcement posted on its official WeChat platform, the Ministry of Security of China has warned about a cryptocurrency project operated by a foreign company that is currently collecting users’ iris data on an international scale.
Biometric Data Transferred Abroad
According to the Chinese security agency, the collected biometric data has been transferred abroad without adequate supervision from the authorities. This is seen as posing a serious risk not only to personal privacy but also threatening national security.
“The transfer of iris data abroad not only invades users’ privacy but could also be used for opaque purposes,” the warning stated.
Chinese officials acknowledge that biometric technologies such as iris scanning and facial recognition offer many practical benefits in modern fields. These applications have been widely implemented in security, healthcare, and electronic payments.
However, the security agency warns about the potential misuse of these technologies, especially in the context of blockchain and cryptocurrency projects, which could lead to unpredictable consequences.
Concerns About Anonymized Data Collection
This warning reflects increasing government concerns that international tech companies may exploit the guise of cryptocurrency development to carry out sensitive data collection activities in an anonymous and hard-to-control manner.
This not only affects personal information security but could also negatively impact national digital sovereignty—a concept that China particularly values in the digital age.
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Recommendations for the Public
The Ministry of Security of China has issued specific recommendations for the public to protect personal information:
- Be Cautious with Crypto Projects: The public should be especially vigilant against invitations to participate in cryptocurrency projects involving biometric data collection.
- Enhance Awareness of Protection: As blockchain projects become increasingly robust and infiltrate many aspects of digital life, citizens are encouraged to raise their awareness of personal information protection.
This warning comes at a time when China is intensifying control over cryptocurrency-related activities and data protection. The country has enacted a series of strict laws regarding cybersecurity and personal data protection in recent years.
