Indonesia has suspended the operations of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s crypto-linked digital identity initiative, World, formerly known as Worldcoin, following allegations of serious legal violations. The Ministry of Communications and Digital (Komdigi) announced on May 4 that it had temporarily revoked the project's Electronic System Operator Certificate (TDPSE) for both World and its World ID service.

Authorities cited “suspicious activity” and improper registration by World’s local entities, PT Terang Bulan Abadi and PT Sandina Abadi Nusantara. An early investigation revealed that PT Terang Bulan Abadi allegedly operated without proper certification, while PT Sandina Abadi was used to mask the project’s true ownership—violating national laws that require all digital service providers to register transparently.

Komdigi’s Director General for Digital Supervision, Alexander Sabar, confirmed that using another company’s registration constitutes a major breach of Indonesia’s digital regulations. “Noncompliance with registration obligations and the use of another legal entity’s identity is a serious violation,” he said.

The ministry has summoned both local entities for questioning and warned the public to stay cautious of unauthorized digital services. Komdigi also called on citizens to report any suspicious activities through official channels, reinforcing its goal of protecting the country’s digital ecosystem.

The suspension has triggered mixed reactions online. While some praised Indonesia for holding World accountable, others argued the project could still benefit low-income users. The controversy adds to mounting global scrutiny. Since its 2023 launch, World has faced regulatory pushback in Germany, Kenya, and Brazil over biometric data concerns.

World recently expanded into the U.S., launching in six cities in May 2025. The suspension in Indonesia marks another setback for Altman’s ambitious identity tech rollout.