Reddit Might Embrace Worldcoin’s Iris Scan to Verify Users Without Doxxing

Reddit is reportedly in talks to integrate World ID, a biometric identity system developed by Tools for Humanity, the startup backed by OpenAI’s Sam Altman.

The move comes as the platform faces rising scrutiny over anonymous users, regulatory pressure, and the growing threat of AI-generated accounts.

Instead of collecting sensitive personal details, World ID offers a novel approach: proving someone is human without revealing who they are. The system uses a device called the Orb, which scans a person’s iris and generates a unique cryptographic code. This “proof of personhood” is stored locally on a user’s device and can be used across platforms without exposing private data. The Orb also detects minors and rejects scans if the user appears underage, while other methods like passport verification remain device-side and private.

Reddit CEO Steve Huffman has publicly stated that user verification is becoming inevitable due to global regulations. However, he emphasized Reddit’s desire to outsource this function to trusted partners rather than handling personal data internally. World ID, with its privacy-first design, aligns well with that goal.

READ MORE:

Coinbase Picks Luxembourg for Its New EU Headquarters, Secures MiCA License

The potential deal follows a recent legal dispute where Reddit challenged the use of AI-generated user simulations by academic researchers, highlighting the platform’s struggle to protect its community from synthetic accounts. If adopted, World ID could offer Reddit a scalable solution that maintains anonymity while ensuring accountability.

Beyond Reddit, the wider implications are significant. A major social platform adopting decentralized biometric verification would mark a milestone in the evolution of digital identity. Meanwhile, Worldcoin (WLD), the token associated with World ID, has seen a dip in value recently, trading near $0.89 with a market cap of roughly $1.44 billion—though the spotlight from Reddit could reignite interest in the project.

Alexander Stefanov

With over 8 years of experience in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry, Alexander is a seasoned content creator and market analyst dedicated to making digital assets more accessible and understandable. He specializes in breaking down complex crypto trends, analyzing market movements, and producing insightful content aimed at educating both newcomers and seasoned investors. Alexander has built a reputation for delivering timely and accurate analysis, while keeping a close eye on regulatory developments, emerging technologies, and macroeconomic trends that shape the future of digital finance. His work is rooted in a passion for innovation and a firm belief that widespread education is key to accelerating global crypto adoption.