Something unusual is happening in Zapala, Neuquén Province. A local newsstand has drawn attention for allegedly paying people $20 to scan their irises, sparking concerns about privacy and potential ties to the controversial Worldcoin (WLD) project.
What’s Going On?
At the center of the buzz is Maxiquiosco San Martín, a newsstand on Zapala’s main avenue. Locals noticed long lines forming outside the kiosk—an odd sight for a place that usually just sells newspapers and snacks.
According to residents, someone inside the newsstand had a computer set up and was paying people cash to collect their biometric data.
“It felt like the kiosk turned into an office,”
one resident shared. But here’s the kicker: The operator didn’t have the proper authorization to do anything like this.
How Did It Come to Light?
The situation became public when a woman called a local radio station, claiming people were exchanging personal data for cryptocurrency at the stand. This prompted authorities, including the Neuquén Ministry of Security, to step in and investigate.
Daniel Domene, from the Ministry, revealed that the operator seemed to be working with an international company specializing in biometric scans. While Domene didn’t name Worldcoin directly, reports strongly suggest a connection. The project, which offers crypto in exchange for iris scans, has made headlines before—both for its innovation and its controversy.
Is Worldcoin Behind This?
Worldcoin operates across Argentina, including in Neuquén Province, and is known for its method of exchanging crypto for biometric data. Authorities are now trying to confirm whether the newsstand operator had any official ties to the project or if another organization is involved.
Is This Even Legal?
Here’s where things get tricky. In Argentina, paying people for iris scans isn’t technically illegal. But collecting sensitive data, like biometrics, comes with strict rules. The country’s data protection laws only allow it in very specific situations, and this case doesn’t seem to meet those standards.
Domene mentioned that the operator could face administrative penalties for not registering with the Personal Data Protection Agency. If a company is involved, investigators will need to check whether it was authorized to collect data in this way.
What Happens Next?
For now, authorities are piecing together the story, trying to figure out who’s behind this operation and whether any laws were broken. Locals, meanwhile, are left scratching their heads about how something so bizarre could happen in their town.
Whether it’s Worldcoin or another entity, the case raises important questions about how far people—and companies—will go to collect biometric data. Stay tuned as this story unfolds.
Disclaimer: This content does not constitute trading or investment recommendations. It’s essential to conduct your own research before purchasing any cryptocurrency or investing in any services.
