- China flags a crypto project that secretly gathers iris scans, calling it a new threat to personal privacy and national security.
- Biometric data like iris patterns are now hacker targets, with crypto firms misusing tech to bypass cybersecurity safeguards worldwide.
- The fusion of crypto and biometrics raises red flags, pushing regulators to act fast against deceptive token-for-data schemes.
China’s Ministry of State Security has issued a serious warning about a growing biometric threat tied to cryptocurrency. A foreign company is allegedly using crypto token launches to secretly collect users’ iris data worldwide. This operation, according to the ministry, endangers both personal privacy and national security. The warning comes amid rising concern over how biometric data is being exploited through emerging digital technologies.
The ministry’s report highlights that the suspicious entity masked its true intent behind a crypto project. Users believed they were joining a decentralized financial venture. Instead, their most sensitive biometric data—specifically iris scans—was being collected, stored, and transferred to unknown locations. Officials stress that this method bypasses traditional cybersecurity defenses, turning crypto into a new weapon for global data surveillance.
Biometric Data at the Center of Digital Espionage
In the digital age, biometric recognition has become commonplace. These days, everything from smartphones to border security systems is powered by technologies like fingerprint identification, iris scanning, and facial recognition. They provide ease of use, rapid recognition, and excellent accuracy. These advantages do, however, come with higher security concerns.
Iris data poses a unique threat, according to the Ministry of State Security. Once taken, iris traits cannot be altered, unlike passwords or physical identification. Additionally, the iris has complex patterns that don’t change over time, which makes it a perfect tool for identity verification and a prime target for fraudsters.
Additionally, the ministry cited public cases where foreign intelligence agencies used facial data to infiltrate sensitive locations. Some firms even connected fingerprint payment systems directly to internal databases. Weak security measures allowed hackers to breach those systems and access user data repeatedly.
Crypto as a Front for Biometric Exploitation
The case of the foreign crypto firm presents a disturbing precedent. Scanning biometric data in exchange for crypto access masks real intentions. Consequently, governments are urging stricter scrutiny of crypto projects promising “free tokens” in exchange for personal data.
Hence, China’s warning signals a shift in global cybersecurity focus. As blockchain and biometric technologies merge, the risks grow sharper. Moving forward, both users and regulators must remain alert to new forms of digital deception hiding behind crypto innovation.
