🔍 The Investigation: Iris Scans Under the Microscope

Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is preparing to probe a cryptocurrency identity-verification scheme involving iris scans collected through Orb devices operated by a local subsidiary of Tools for Humanity.

Participants verified their identity in exchange for World (WLD) tokens, but investigators now question whether the program violated national laws — especially around computer crime and biometric data handling.

• 1.2M+ iris scans were collected in 2024.
• Biometric data is legally treated similar to DNA-level sensitivity.
• Authorities fear consent disclosures were incomplete or misleading.
• Incorrect or falsified data may have been entered into computer systems — a potential breach of the Computer Crime Act.

DSI is coordinating with AMLO (Anti-Money Laundering Office) and global experts to audit the technology and data flow.

🛂 What Authorities Are Investigating

Officials have outlined three primary areas of focus:

1. Technical differences between iris-scanning devices used in Thailand vs. other countries.
2. How biometric data was stored, transmitted, or monetized within corporate or international systems.
3. Possible ties between the Prime Opportunity Fund and crypto entities that may relate to AML risks.

Meanwhile, comparable biometric crypto projects in Singapore were never approved, heightening concerns over Thailand’s exposure.

📉 The MoU Fallout: Cancelled Over Money-Laundering Risks

Amid scrutiny, Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE Ministry) has terminated a March 2024 MoU with the Prime Opportunity Fund — suspected of links to a global money-laundering network.

• The MoU proposed creating the Thailand International Digital and Financial Centre (TIDC).
• It allegedly offered fast-track visas for up to 500 foreign IT specialists.
• The entire agreement was negotiated and signed in just three days (March 25–27), witnessed by senior officials.
• Foreign businessman Benjamin “Ben” Mauerberger played a key role in securing signatures.

The abrupt cancellation deepened regulatory skepticism toward biometric crypto programs operating in Thailand.

🧠 ATH.LIVE Analyst Take: Asia’s New Regulatory Reality

ATH.LIVE analysts say Thailand’s case reflects a broader regional truth: as Asia becomes a global leader in Web3 adoption, regulators are moving aggressively to safeguard user data and digital rights.

• Biometric data (like iris scans) is among the most sensitive personal information — comparable to DNA.
• Misuse could lead to identity theft, surveillance risks, or cross-border data leakage.
• Regulators across Asia increasingly emphasize AML compliance, computer crime enforcement, and transparent consent frameworks.

“The Thai case illustrates the growing tension between blockchain innovation and regulatory frameworks. Projects must prioritize transparency and privacy to avoid legal and reputational risks.”

🌏 Why This Matters for Asia’s Web3 Future

Asia is rapidly becoming a global Web3 powerhouse — but with that growth comes heightened scrutiny. ATH.LIVE analysts highlight that sustainable adoption will depend on:

• stronger privacy protections,
• clear compliance standards,
• and robust frameworks for managing biometric and identity-linked data.

As the region scales crypto infrastructure, balancing innovation with user protection remains the ultimate challenge.