Video conferencing platform Zoom will introduce a verification badge for participants in meetings to confirm their identity as real humans. The feature, developed in partnership with Worldcoin, will display a small icon next to the names of verified users during calls. According to a company announcement on Thursday, the system relies on biometric verification to distinguish between human users and automated accounts.
The verification process requires participants to scan their iris using a supported device. Worldcoin’s technology then generates a unique digital signature that Zoom can cross-check against its database. Users who complete the process will receive a green checkmark on their profile picture during meetings. Zoom stated the goal is to reduce disruptions caused by bots and fake accounts in virtual gatherings.
Worldcoin, a project backed by blockchain company Tools for Humanity, has been expanding its biometric verification services since 2023. The company already collaborates with other platforms to authenticate users. Zoom’s integration marks one of the first large-scale uses of iris scanning in mainstream software outside of security or banking sectors.
Privacy advocates have raised concerns about the collection and storage of biometric data. Zoom did not immediately address how long the data will be retained or who will have access to it. The company said it will provide more details in its upcoming privacy policy update scheduled for next month.
The feature will roll out gradually starting next week for paid subscribers on Windows and macOS. Free-tier users will gain access later this year, though the company has not specified an exact date.
Source: techcrunch.com