Humanity Protocol is a zero-knowledge (ZK) decentralized identity project that aims to bridge the gap between online and offline identities. In its latest funding round, the company raised $20m at a valuation of $1.1 bn.
The project is creating a verification system that uses palm scans for online accounts. The company says it focuses on privacy and security since it deals with sensitive biometric data. Worldcoin, its major rival, has raised concerns about safety and regulatory compliance in the digital ID sector.
Cryptonews spoke with Humanity CEO Terence Kwok to explore the company’s technology and approach. In this interview, we ask how Humanity plans to address these pressing issues while ensuring user trust.
With over 3.2 million digital IDs created on the platform over the last four months, we examine whether Humanity can truly provide a viable alternative.
Technology: Humanity vs Worldcoin
Cryptonews: What separates Humanity Protocol’s approach to digital identity from that of your major rival Worldcoin, in terms of technology, user experience, enrollment, and data storage?
Terence Kwok: Humanity Protocol and Worldcoin share similarities in their use of Zero-Knowledge Proofs for privacy-preserving identity verification, but they differ significantly in their user experience and enrollment methods.
Humanity Protocol uses palm vein scans, which are more accessible, non-invasive, and familiar to users, enabling seamless adoption and scalability across diverse demographics and environments. This focus on intuitive, user-friendly technology reduces barriers to entry while ensuring privacy and security, creating a more inclusive and scalable solution for decentralized digital identity.
CN: How does the palm scanning technology used by Humanity Protocol compare to the iris scanning used by Worldcoin?
TK: The palm scanning technology used by Humanity Protocol offers a secure and privacy-preserving alternative to the iris scanning employed by Worldcoin. Palm vein scans are less invasive and feel more familiar to users, resembling everyday authentication methods like biometric payments or smartphone access. This reduces discomfort or hesitancy often associated with scanning sensitive features like irises.
Palm scanning is highly secure, relying on unique vein patterns beneath the skin, which are difficult to replicate. Humanity Protocol’s approach strikes a balance between robust security and user comfort, making it better suited for wide-scale adoption without compromising privacy or accessibility.
CN: How does Humanity address concerns about access for underserved populations who may not have the technology or infrastructure to use digital IDs?
TK: Humanity prioritizes inclusivity and minimizing barriers to entry. The protocol supports low-cost hardware solutions, like palm vein scanners, to ensure accessibility in areas with limited infrastructure. Offline enrollment programs and partnerships with local organizations help bridge the digital divide by enabling users to register in person.
Is the Scanning Method Safe?
CN: In Kenya, Worldcoin faced major regulatory scrutiny, even a temporary shutdown, after reports that some people developed eye problems after getting their irises scanned. What steps is Humanity taking to ensure that its biometric devices are safe for users?
TK: Humanity employs non-invasive, thoroughly tested biometric devices like palm vein scanners instead of iris scanners. These devices use harmless near-infrared light to map vein patterns, a technology proven safe through extensive clinical and technical evaluations. Palm veins are also far more durable than irises as these patterns won’t change with use of the hardware devices.
CN: In light of the backlash against Worldcoin’s methods, how do you plan to build public trust in your company’s biometric verification processes?
TK: Humanity is building public trust through transparency, privacy, and security. When it is rolled out, our biometric verification process will leverage advanced zero-knowledge proofs, ensuring that no sensitive information is stored or shared.
The zkProofer network verifies identity without compromising user privacy, allowing individuals to maintain full control over their personal data. At this moment, no biometrics have been collected yet. Users are only allowed to register their human IDs.
CN: How does Humanity Protocol plan to compete with other emerging technologies in digital identity verification beyond biometrics, such as blockchain-based identity solutions without physical verification?
TK: Humanity Protocol combines biometrics with blockchain to create a hybrid solution that addresses the weaknesses of purely digital identity systems. While blockchain-only solutions excel in decentralization, they struggle with Sybil resistance and verifying real-world uniqueness.
Humanity bridges this gap with secure, non-invasive biometric verification, linking unique human attributes to decentralized identities. Its focus on inclusivity, offline onboarding, and privacy through zero-knowledge proofs makes it versatile and competitive.
Tokenomics
CN: I understand that Humanity is planning to launch a token later this year. What is the utility of the token, and how will it drive value for token holders?
TK: The upcoming token will serve as the backbone of the ecosystem to drive participation and reward contributions. Its utility includes governance, enabling token holders to vote on key protocol decisions, and powers rewards for validators, incentivizing network security and engagement.
CN: Worldcoin has used its WLD token to reward users who volunteer to have their irises scanned. What is Humanity Protocol’s strategy for user acquisition and incentivizing participation and adoption?
TK: Humanity Protocol’s strategy focuses on creating value for users through meaningful participation rather than rewarding them for participating. Our approach is centered around building a sustainable community and ecosystem.
CN: What is the economic incentive structure for users and validators, and how does it ensure sustainability without exploiting users?
TK: Sustainability is key here. Users gain real-world utility via Proof of Human Identity (PoH), unlocking access to on-chain and off-chain services. Referral rewards encourage ecosystem growth, creating a positive feedback loop.
Validators, operating decentralized Verifier and Founding Nodes, earn consistent rewards for verifying credentials and reaching consensus, fostering network security. HP’s randomized node distribution prevents centralization, while tiered participation lowers entry barriers.
Ethical AI verification ensures fairness, and tokenomics are designed to maintain value. Together, these elements create a robust, equitable, and sustainable identity ecosystem.
What’s Next for Humanity’s Palm Scan?
CN: Can you elaborate on the timeline for the global rollout of palm scan devices, and what are the key milestones you aim to achieve in 2025?
TK: Humanity is currently showcasing palm vein devices in select cities across Europe and Asia, gathering feedback to refine the user experience. We aim to scale globally with a phased rollout. Key milestones include expanding deployment to major regions.
CN: What can you say are some of the challenges you’ve faced in scaling your infrastructure? And how does Humanity plan to address issues of interoperability and cross-platform compatibility with other digital identity solutions?
TK: Scaling the infrastructure has presented challenges related to ensuring seamless user experiences and managing a growing network. Humanity is focused on addressing these by adopting modular, flexible architecture that can evolve with technological advancements.
As for interoperability, the protocol is designed to integrate with other digital identity systems through open standards, APIs, and collaboration with other projects in the space.
Additional note
Terence Kwok refused to answer some questions that we believe would be valuable to our readers, citing “compliance reasons.” We will update this post if and when we receive answers.
Here are the questions that the Humanity Protocol CEO did not respond to:
There have been concerns over the collection of biometric data by private entities like Worldcoin and, obviously, your company. What measures have you put in place to prevent data breaches, misuse of sensitive data, and unauthorized access to user information? Has Humanity obtained any certifications or commissioned independent studies to validate the safety and accuracy of its biometric scanning technology? According to Humanity’s website, the protocol has created 3.2 million digital IDs so far. Can you shed light on the demographics of the users who took part? And how did you handle data collection and user consent in developing countries to ensure transparency? How will the token distribution be managed to prevent market manipulation and ensure fair access for all users?The post Can Humanity Protocol Avoid Worldcoin’s Pitfalls? | Interview with CEO Terence Kwok appeared first on Cryptonews.
