Worldcoin, the crypto-based digital identity project co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, is under scrutiny again as German regulators demand compliance with European Union (EU) data protection laws.
The Bavarian State Office for Data Protection Supervision’s (BayLDA) investigation focused on how Worldcoin’s flagship technology, the World ID, is compliant with GDPR standards, as per a Thursday announcement.
BayLDA has ordered Worldcoin, now rebranded as World, to implement a GDPR-compliant data deletion protocol by no later than January 19.
The GDPR is a comprehensive EU law designed to protect individuals’ personal data and privacy, enforcing strict rules on how data is collected, processed, and stored.
“With today’s decision, we are enforcing European fundamental rights standards in favor of the data subjects in a technologically demanding and legally highly complex case,” said Michael Will, President of the State Office at BayDLA. “All users who have provided “Worldcoin” with their iris data will in future have the unrestricted opportunity to enforce their right to erasure.”
The World ID is generated through “Orbs,” devices that scan a person’s eyeball to create a unique digital identifier designed to verify that individuals are real people rather than bots.
However, BayLDA raised concerns over the “fundamental data protection risks” posed by processing such sensitive biometric data and its compliance with data protection rights.
Worldcoin voluntarily suspended some of its operations across EU countries during the inquiry and introduced updates to improve compliance.
The regulator flagged earlier phases of World’s data collection practices, which involved storing iris codes in centralized databases.
These activities were deemed non-compliant with GDPR, leading to an order to delete all data collected without sufficient legal basis. World is now required to secure explicit consent for certain data processing steps.
Despite implementing cryptographic protocols that anonymize data by splitting iris codes into encrypted fragments, the BayLDA determined that further adjustments were necessary.
Worldcoin has already received the German regulator’s decision and plans to appeal it, according to the agency’s statement.
World Faces Global Privacy Concerns
Worldcoin, launched in 2023, introduced a concept called “proof of personhood,” seeking to establish a vast network of users verified as humans rather than bots or AI algorithms.
However, its vision quickly drew the attention of regulators worldwide.
Countries such as Kenya and Portugal temporarily banned the project over privacy concerns.
By October, Worldcoin transitioned to its new identity as ‘World’ and unveiled an updated version of its iris-scanning “Orb” device.
These devices, with 30% fewer parts and triple the production capacity of its predecessor, were first deployed in Berlin, Germany, in July 2023.
While the initiative gained attention for its innovation, it was equally criticized by privacy advocates who labeled the project as intrusive and potentially exploitative.
Shortly after the project’s launch, France and Germany initiated investigations into its biometric data collection practices. France’s privacy watchdog, CNIL, questioned the legality of the data collection and storage processes, calling them “questionable.”
World did not immediately respond to Decrypt’s request for comment.
Edited by Sebastian Sinclair
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Robert Vito will not face criminal charges after his arrest last month … though he will speak to the city attorney about alternative conflict resolution in the future.
The Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office tells TMZ … Vito has an upcoming hearing with the city attorney where they’ll talk to him and go over ways to avoid situations like this in the future.
After that, the case will be put on ice … and, as long as he doesn’t get in trouble in the next year, he won’t ever face charges because of it.
We broke the story … RV was arrested last month on a felony domestic violence charge after cops were called to his house over an alleged incident with his then-girlfriend Lindsey Jennings.
Sources told us Vito and Lindsey allegedly got into an argument that turned physical — with Lindsey claiming at one point Vito pushed their son and threw him onto the couch.
Officers claim they saw visible injuries on Lindsey’s body and arrested Robert … though a couple weeks later the district attorney’s office announced they weren’t filing felony charges. Now, the City Attorney won’t even file a misdemeanor.
Vito’s attorney, Bob M. Farahan, tells TMZ … while they don’t believe Robert ever should’ve been arrested, they know law enforcement officers had limited information at the time of his arrest — hearing only Jennings’ side of the story.
Farahan tells us Robert doesn’t condone physical or domestic violence … and he looks forward to moving on from this incident and being an active father to his son.
A few years back, buying a domain name involved typing it into a search bar, paying a small annual fee, and hosting a website. Today, as the internet evolves into a more decentralized environment, traditional domain names have begun to share the spotlight with a new, blockchain-based alternative: NFT domains. These aren’t just web addresses—they’re digital assets that you can truly own, trade like collectibles, and even use to simplify crypto transactions. Whether you’re intrigued by the idea of an online identity that isn’t controlled by a single corporation or you’re excited about the prospect of turning a small investment into a profitable flip, learning how to register and trade NFT domains is a skill worth adding to your toolbox.
In this article, we’ll walk through what NFT domains are, why they matter, and how to register them without hassle. Then we’ll dig into the nitty-gritty of trading NFT domains for profit, covering everything from price research to negotiation tactics. Along the way, you’ll find tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and position yourself for success in this frontier of the decentralized web.
What Are NFT Domains?
If you’ve ever typed in a familiar “.com” or “.net” address, you know how traditional domains work. They rely on centralized registries and can be subject to censorship, takedowns, or control by third parties. In contrast, NFT domains—often known as Web3 domains—exist as tokens on a blockchain. Instead of “renting” your web address from a registry, you own it outright. Each NFT domain is recorded on a public ledger that can’t be altered by a single authority.
Services like the Ethereum Name Service (ENS), Unstoppable Domains, and Handshake are well-known platforms offering these blockchain-based domain names. They usually come with unique extensions like “.eth” or “.crypto,” and they can be used for more than just websites. For example, you can link an NFT domain to your crypto wallet, simplifying addresses into human-readable names. This flexibility helps make the decentralized web feel more accessible, memorable, and user-friendly.
Benefits of Owning an NFT Domain
True Digital Ownership:With NFT domains, you’re holding a token in your own wallet. There’s no middleman who can take it away, revoke it, or freeze it. This ownership model aligns perfectly with the broader philosophy of Web3—empowering users rather than giant corporations.
Branding and Identity:Whether you’re a content creator, a business owner, or a member of a DAO, having an NFT domain lets you establish a unique identity. It’s like a digital nameplate that can’t be forged or copied. As more people enter the Web3 space, owning a memorable NFT domain could become a powerful branding asset.
Simple Crypto Transactions:Managing long, complicated wallet addresses can be daunting. NFT domains allow you to send or receive cryptocurrency by simply typing in a short, easy-to-remember domain. This convenience can help onboard newcomers and foster trust in a decentralized ecosystem.
Potential for Long-Term Value:Just as certain traditional “.com” domains became immensely valuable over time, early NFT domain names—especially short, brandable, or keyword-rich ones—could appreciate in value. As Web3 adoption grows, the right NFT domain might become a valuable collectible or commercial property.
How to Register NFT Domains
Choose a Blockchain Domain Provider
Before you can own an NFT domain, you need to select a reputable provider. Popular platforms include:
ENS (Ethereum Name Service): Well-established, focusing on “.eth” domains.
Unstoppable Domains: Offers a variety of extensions, including “.crypto” and “.nft,” often sold as a one-time purchase without ongoing fees.
Handshake: A decentralized naming protocol with numerous TLDs.
When picking a provider, consider factors like transaction fees, domain availability, and the platform’s reputation. Look into the roadmap, community support, and whether the domain can integrate easily with other decentralized services.
Connect a Crypto Wallet
Registering an NFT domain typically requires a Web3-compatible wallet, such as MetaMask or Coinbase Wallet. If you don’t have one yet, set it up by:
Installing the browser extension or mobile app.
Writing down and securely storing your seed phrase.
Funding the wallet with a small amount of cryptocurrency (often ETH) to cover registration fees and gas costs.
Once funded, connect your wallet to the domain provider’s website. The connection is usually a one-click process.
Search and Select Your NFT Domain
Next, think about the name you want. Short, brandable domains tend to hold more long-term value. You might also look for terms related to emerging trends—anything from AI, GameFi, or Metaverse keywords could be valuable down the line.
Once you’ve brainstormed a few options, use the domain provider’s search tool. If your chosen name is available, you’ll see a price and the option to register it. If it’s taken, try variations or different extensions.
Pay the Registration Fee
When you’ve settled on a domain, proceed with the purchase. Depending on the platform, you might pay a one-time fee or an annual renewal cost. Always double-check the total amount, including any gas fees for the transaction. Confirm and sign the transaction through your wallet, and wait for the blockchain confirmation.
Verify Domain Ownership in Your Wallet
Once confirmed, the NFT domain will appear in your wallet’s NFT section or on your account dashboard. You now officially own it. It’s wise to keep your seed phrase secure and enable any available security features to protect your new digital asset.
How to Trade NFT Domains for Profit
Owning an NFT domain is only half the story. Trading these domains can be a way to capitalize on your foresight or luck in snagging valuable names early.
Understanding Marketplaces
To sell or buy NFT domains, you’ll need to visit NFT marketplaces. Big names like OpenSea often feature NFT domains, and there are also niche platforms focused solely on Web3 naming. Before listing, check the marketplace’s listing fees, user reviews, and liquidity. A platform with a large, active community increases the odds of finding a buyer at a fair price.
Pricing Your NFT Domain
Determining the right asking price can be tricky. Start by researching recent sales of similar NFT domains. Analyze comparable names, the length, and any brandable qualities. Keep an eye on market trends—when a certain technology or community is on the rise, names related to it often gain value. If you’re unsure, consider starting with a slightly higher price and being open to offers.
Listing and Marketing Your NFT Domain
Creating a listing is straightforward. Connect your wallet, choose a fixed price or auction format, and add a description that highlights the domain’s potential use cases. Then, promote your listing. Share it on social media, Web3 forums, or Telegram and Discord groups dedicated to NFT trading. Engaging with potential buyers and educating them on the domain’s value can help close a deal faster.
Negotiation and After-Sales Service
When offers roll in, don’t hesitate to negotiate. Ask yourself: Is this name likely to appreciate if I hold longer, or is it better to sell now and move on to another opportunity? Once you’ve agreed on a price, finalize the transaction through the marketplace’s standard process. Make sure the buyer knows exactly how to receive and manage the NFT domain. Professionalism and clear communication can earn you a good reputation as a seller, potentially leading to repeat buyers or referrals.
Investing Strategies and Tips for Long-Term Profit
Just like conventional domain investing, profits in NFT domains often hinge on patience, market knowledge, and foresight.
Identify Trends Early: If you anticipate a new blockchain network or a popular metaverse project, consider registering related terms before they explode in demand.
Diversify Your Portfolio: Don’t put all your resources into one theme or extension. Spread out across different platforms and name types, increasing your chances of success.
Hold Premium Names for Value Appreciation: If you own a short, brandable NFT domain or one tied to a long-lasting concept, holding might yield higher returns than a quick flip.
Stay Informed: Regularly read up on Web3 news, join NFT domain communities, and track domain auction results. The more you know, the better you’ll be at spotting profitable opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overpaying for Generic Names: Don’t fall into the trap of buying just any NFT domain because it’s cheap. Focus on memorable, keyword-rich, or brand-friendly names.
Ignoring Renewal Fees (if applicable): Some NFT domains, like ENS names, may require periodic renewals. Failing to renew might cause you to lose the domain.
Neglecting Security: Keep your wallet and seed phrases safe. A compromised wallet means losing your domains.
Falling for Scams: Always use trusted platforms and double-check URLs before connecting your wallet. Scammers often create fake phishing sites to trick new investors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What blockchain platforms support NFT domains?A: Leading options include Ethereum Name Service (ENS) for “.eth” names, Unstoppable Domains for extensions like “.crypto,” and Handshake for a variety of unique top-level domains.
Q: Do NFT domains expire?A: It depends on the platform. ENS names typically require periodic renewals, while providers like Unstoppable Domains offer NFT domains as a one-time purchase without ongoing fees.
Q: Can I host a website on my NFT domain?A: Yes. Many NFT domain platforms support hosting decentralized websites, although it may require additional steps like IPFS hosting and some technical know-how.
Q: Are NFT domains guaranteed to increase in value?A: No guarantees exist. The value of an NFT domain depends on market trends, brandability, scarcity, and buyer interest. Like any investment, there’s a risk involved.
Q: How do I transfer my NFT domain to another wallet?A: You can transfer ownership just like any other NFT. On your marketplace’s platform, select the “transfer” function, enter the recipient’s wallet address, and complete the transaction.
Conclusion
NFT domains represent a new frontier where ownership, digital identity, and investment potential intersect. Learning how to register NFT domains and understanding how to trade them profitably can give you a foothold in the evolving Web3 ecosystem. By recognizing trends, picking memorable names, staying organized, and approaching negotiations thoughtfully, you have the chance to reap both practical and financial rewards.
As the decentralized web continues to grow, early adopters who grasp the value of NFT domains may be well-positioned for long-term success. Now is the perfect time to explore these unique digital assets, do your research, and carve out your own place in the expanding world of Web3.
Editor’s note: This article was written with the assistance of AI. Edited and fact-checked by Owen Skelton.
Owen Skelton is an experienced journalist and editor with a passion for delivering insightful and engaging content. As Editor-in-Chief, he leads a talented team of writers and editors to create compelling stories that inform and inspire.
Published: December 19, 2024 at 8:00 pm Updated: December 19, 2024 at 9:58 am
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A top analyst has predicted an exciting 150% rally for the Shiba Inu price, but the real gem for investors is WallitIQ (WLTQ). With a jaw-dropping 27,000% surge expected, the rival WallitIQ (WLTQ) is set to soar to $5 in just 2 weeks, making it an absolute must-have for anyone looking to maximize their returns.
Shiba Inu Price Could Skyrocket 150% Next—Top Analyst Weighs In
As the crypto market continues to evolve, the Shiba Inu price has captured the attention of many investors. According to a top analyst, a 150% rally from $0.0000268 is the next major move for the Shiba Inu price.
The Shiba Inu price has shown remarkable resilience in recent months, and the analyst believes that this upward trend is far from over. With its unique position in the meme coin sector, the Shiba Inu price is poised for a significant surge, driven by increasing community support and growing adoption.
The analyst suggests that the Shiba Inu price could experience a sharp rally, bringing it closer to its all-time high of $0.00008845. This prediction has sparked renewed interest in SHIB, as many are eager to capitalize on the potential gains.
As the Shiba Inu price rises, investors are hopeful that the token will solidify its place in the broader cryptocurrency market. For those looking for high-risk, high-reward opportunities, the Shiba Inu price is a key factor to watch in the coming weeks.
Prepare For A 27,000% Surge: WallitIQ (WLTQ) Eyes $5 In 2 Weeks
WallitIQ (WLTQ) is rapidly emerging as the top rival to Shiba Inu (SHIB) in the cryptocurrency market, boasting groundbreaking utilities that have caught the eye of a top analyst. The analyst predicts a staggering 27,000% rally, boosting the rival WallitIQ (WLTQ) from its current presale price of $0.0243 to an impressive $5 within just 2 weeks.
The analyst believes WallitIQ’s ( WLTQ) advanced AI-driven platform, which combines machine learning, multimodal chatbots, and QR-based scan-and-pay feature, will revolutionize decentralized finance (DeFi).
These innovative solutions make it easier for both seasoned investors and newcomers to engage with DeFi, making the rival WallitIQ (WLTQ) an attractive option for those looking to capitalize on its explosive massive rally to $5 in 2 weeks.
The surge of interest in WallitIQ’s (WLTQ) presale is a testament to its bright future, with investors flocking to secure their tokens before the anticipated price surge for this market rival. Adding to the platform’s credibility, WallitIQ (WLTQ) has successfully completed a SolidProof smart contract audit, guaranteeing robust security for its smart contracts and further mitigating risks associated with hidden vulnerabilities or unexpected costs.
With its cutting-edge tech, secure environment, and massive rally potential to $5, the rival WallitIQ (WLTQ) is positioned to disrupt the market. The analyst’s bullish outlook and growing demand during the presale underscore WallitIQ’s (WLTQ) potential to become a dominant force in the crypto space.
Investors looking to take advantage of this incredible opportunity should act quickly, as the presale tokens are priced attractively at $0.0243 and are expected to sell out soon.
Achieve Historic Gains In 2 Weeks With WallitIQ’s (WLTQ) Presale
As the Shiba Inu price prepares for a 150% rally, all eyes are on WallitIQ’s (WLTQ) presale, which promises an astounding 27,000% surge from $0.0243 to $5 in just 2 weeks. WallitIQ (WLTQ) is quickly becoming a major contender in the market, offering a unique investment opportunity that stands out as a strong rival.
The top analyst further highlights WallitIQ’s (WLTQ) integration of advanced AI-powered fraud detection, real-time threat mitigation, and biometric authentication, including facial recognition and liveness detection. These cutting-edge features not only secure assets but also improve decentralized finance (DeFi) to new heights.
The simplicity, security, and utility of the rivalWallitIQ (WLTQ) is expected to drive its 27,000% surge to $5, generating massive returns in 2 weeks. As the presale gains momentum, investors are flocking to seize this rare opportunity before it ends, positioning WallitIQ (WLTQ) as a game-changer in the DeFi space.
Join the WallitIQ (WLTQ) presale and community:
Join WallitIQ (WLTQ) Presale
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Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.
About The Author
Gregory, a digital nomad hailing from Poland, is not only a financial analyst but also a valuable contributor to various online magazines. With a wealth of experience in the financial industry, his insights and expertise have earned him recognition in numerous publications. Utilising his spare time effectively, Gregory is currently dedicated to writing a book about cryptocurrency and blockchain.
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Gregory, a digital nomad hailing from Poland, is not only a financial analyst but also a valuable contributor to various online magazines. With a wealth of experience in the financial industry, his insights and expertise have earned him recognition in numerous publications. Utilising his spare time effectively, Gregory is currently dedicated to writing a book about cryptocurrency and blockchain.
In a secret pre-holiday update to Cyberpunk 2077, developer CD Projekt Red added a little tabletop-shaped gift. A spokesperson from Cyberpunk publisher R. Talsorian Games told Polygon that “any person who owns Cyberpunk 2077 and can access their Bonus Content folder can now find Cyberpunk RED: Easy Mode in there, of course for free.”
Without mention, Cyberpunk 2077’s update 2.2 quietly offered up the quick start guide to the tabletop role-playing game. Easy Mode has abridged rules and an introductory mission to onboard new players quickly to using dice pools instead of controllers and keyboards. Players will be able to act as one of five pre-generated characters in the quick start: the charismatic Rockerboy, the lethal Solo, the inventive Tech, the lifesaving Medtech, and the hard-hitting Media. Though the guide includes a brief dive into the history and landscape of Night City, fans of the video game should feel intimately familiar with the prequel world of Cyberpunk RED.
Though the preview was released at Gen Con in 2019, the full version of Cyberpunk RED originally released alongside Cyberpunk 2077 in 2020. The tabletop game is latest edition of the original Cyberpunk 2020 RPG (which was released in 1989). The franchise explores the gritty sci-fi fiction of an end-stage capitalist technofuture where, according to the game’s description, “corporations control the world from their skyscraper fortresses.” Perhaps a little on the nose. Set in 2045, Cyberpunk RED takes place midway between the events of Cyberpunk 2020 and Cyberpunk 2077.
Polygon has confirmed the gift is available to PC users. To check for your copy of the PDF on PC, navigate to “C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\music\Cyberpunk 2077 Bonus Content.” Polygon has not been able to verify how to get the PDF on Xbox or PlayStation, though the spokesperson said it “should have been” confirmed for those platforms as well.
“Real Housewives of New York” alum Bethenny Frankel has switched gears from her usual TikTok content to focus on the recent drone issue that’s plaguing New Jersey and many other states.
Frankel has posted multiple videos talking about the mysterious drone sightings, sharing information she’s been told, as well as her own recent experience seeing a drone in New York after feeling left out not seeing one.
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Bethenny Frankel Is ‘Obsessed’ With ‘DroneTok’
TikTok | Bethenny Frankel
The former reality star posted her first TikTok video talking about the drone sightings a few days ago, and since then, she’s shared multiple videos on the topic.
In one video, she told her viewers, “If you’re on Drone Tok, then I guess we’re in this together.”
She talked about the different theories that are swirling around currently.
“I would say, if this situation escalates, it’s not being reported that widely on the news, like I want to look for it and I’m not seeing it, if more sightings occur and this seems to be escalating and there’s some sort of a frenzy or a panic for whatever they’re quote unquote looking for, that would be a time to be alarmed,” she shared in one TikTok video.
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“And I would say, if it stops, then the proverbial they, the theoretical they has maybe found the theoretical it, and that would be a good sign. I do think that telling us whatever it is, if it’s not great, that would be international panic. That would probably be a disaster.”
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Bethenny Frankel Talked About How Mainstream Media Is Handling The Drone Topic
In another TikTok video, Frankel talks about how the mainstream media is handling the drone situation.
“So I post something that got millions of views, not one person calls it bizarre, but some freelance writer for the Daily Mail says, ‘Bethenny’s bizarre theory,’ and The Post, of course, picks that up, the word bizarre,” she said. “So riddle me this; when there are giant hovering aircrafts over people’s homes terrifying them, should there be a normal explanation?”
She continued to explain how this drone issue shouldn’t be “totally fine” and said, “when there are normal occurrences, we’ll have normal theories and explanations.”
Many viewers dropped into the comments to share their thoughts.
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“If it’s bizarre why are airports shutting down????” one person asked. Another said, “Good Morning America this morning said to ignore the drones because they are normal! Whaaaaaat????”
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The Reality Star Shared Information She Was Given
In a follow up DroneTok video, Frankel shared some information she was given.
She said that someone she spoke to said they saw one plane and three drones in Monmouth County, New Jersey flying low above homes. She said there were also sightings in Wycoff and Bernardsville.
“The mainstream news is not reporting it. Fox News is somewhat reporting it, aka Trump television, and the other networks, aka current administration television, are not really talking about it,” she said. “So something is obviously going on, and it is consistent that something is being searched for. I stand behind my theory.”
‘Last Night Seemed Heightened And Lit’
As the drone saga continues, Frankel’s reporting of all the news and information she’s collected does, too.
“So last night seemed heightened and lit, no pun intended, which unsettles me more because the media is saying that there have been 5,000 drones reported,” she said. “And last night alone, I, on my account, have hundreds of sightings messaged to me, you do the math, the cost, the volume, but the new information I thought was interesting was one person said to me, ‘Why are these drones spraying something into the ocean?'”
She said she also has photos of “generators being transported on massive trucks.”
In a follow-up video, Frankel shared that she disagrees with politicians talking about the fact that the government should be transparent with people about just what’s going on.
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“Whatever is going on would be widespread panic,” she said. “I’m not really talking to them. I understand what they’re doing. If there’s something going on that requires billions of dollars of drones flying over people’s homes, they should shut the f— up and do what they have to do. They don’t need to be focusing on babysitting us. I think they’re doing whatever they should be doing given the circumstances.”
The following video shared by Frankel just quickly jokes that she’s in her “drone reporter era.”
Bethenny Frankel Finally Saw A Drone With Her Own Eyes
After reporting on the drone phenomenon without ever witnessing one herself, Frankel finally “popped her drone cherry” by seeing a drone out in the sky.
“I left the house in pajamas. I was feeling such FOMO, like I’m talking about this stuff that I don’t understand. I haven’t seen it, I need to see it for myself,” she said. “Here’s what it’s like. So first of all, you just will see the lights and then you’ll see something that’s stopped. It’s unusual, it’s not flying, it’s just hovering.”
She continued explaining what she saw saying it’s “huge” and “not like a recreational thing.” She also described it as “bigger than a car.”
After seeing her first drone, she immediately saw a second.
“That was insane,” she said. “And it’s very unsettling and it’s creepy.”
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She concluded her video saying, “I’m here to tell you, the drones are real.”
Frankel has quite a few other drone related videos on TikTok, so she’s the one to follow if you’re wondering just what’s going on in the sky.
What if cult-classic bureaucratic-’em-up Papers Please ditched its grim Iron Curtain influences for a bright and whimsical aesthetic instead? You’d get Lil’ Guardsman, a pleasant surprise set in a fantasy world. As Lil, the 12-year-old hero covering their dad’s shift at the guard shed, it’s up to you to process more than 100 people, dealing with the passes of humans, elves, goblins, and other fantastical creatures to see who’s worthy to pass through the castle gates. It’s a charmingly silly combo of deduction-based gameplay, puzzles, and storytelling that makes paperwork fun.
As we spend more time online—collecting digital goodies, and exploring virtual worlds—we might need better ways to prove who we are and protect what we own. Passwords and security questions don’t always cut it anymore. That’s where a new idea comes in: Biometric NFTs. These special tokens combine blockchain technology with unique parts of your biology, like your face or fingerprint, to keep your digital assets safe.
What Are Biometric NFTs?
An NFT is like a one-of-a-kind digital asset stored on a blockchain. It could represent a piece of digital art, fractionalized real estate, or an asset in a video game. Now imagine tying an NFT to your biometric data—for example, your facial features. This creates a direct link between you (a unique human) and your NFT. Instead of just hoping a password is strong enough, your face or fingerprint helps prove you own something. In other words, it’s a more personal and foolproof way of proving ownership and verifying identity in the digital world.
Why Better Security Matters
Digital assets—from rare digital art and virtual collectibles to entire digital worlds—have greatly increased popularity and value. But as more people buy, sell, and trade these items, the risk of fraud and theft also grows. Traditional logins can be guessed or stolen; even two-factor authentication can fail against determined scammers.
Biometric NFTs could add an extra layer of security ensuring that no one else can slip into your accounts or snatch your tokens without passing the ultimate test: being you.
How Biometric Authentication Works for NFTs
Biometric authentication uses physical traits that are uniquely yours. It might scan your face, read your fingerprint, or listen to your voice. When you access your NFT marketplace or digital wallet, a quick facial scan can replace typing long passwords.
The blockchain then confirms the NFT belongs to the person with these unique traits. Because these traits are hard to fake, scams and break-ins are much less likely.
When you want to transfer or sell your NFT, you need transaction confirmation. Using your biometric data means you’re essentially “signing” the transaction with your own face or fingerprint.
This biometric digital signature ensures that even if someone got hold of your device, they still couldn’t move your NFT without passing that biometric check.
Government and Services
Biometric NFTs can also help governments and large organizations manage identities online. Instead of carrying multiple IDs or memorizing many passwords, you could use a single token tied to your face or fingerprint.
Governments could control access to sensitive information or secure virtual reality spaces, confident that only the right person gets through. This kind of identity management could streamline everything from logging into public services to proving who you are in a digital voting booth.
Looking Ahead: Virtual Worlds and Beyond
The future looks bright for NFT technology. As we spend more time in virtual reality spaces—whether for entertainment, shopping, or work—we’ll need better ways to confirm who we are.
Biometric NFTs could make these virtual experiences more trustworthy. When you enter a virtual world to see a digital art gallery, for example, your face or voice could let you in, give you access to your unique collection, or even unlock special features.
Privacy Matters: Protecting Your Data
Of course, nobody wants their personal information floating around online. That’s why privacy-preserving methods are so important. An example comes from a South Korean company called Privasea, which developed an app called ImHuman.
This app uses fully homomorphic encryption (FHE), a fancy way of saying it can process your biometric data—like a face scan—while it’s still encrypted. In other words, even if someone got into the system, they’d never see your raw data.
With ImHuman, you simply use your phone’s camera to prove you’re a real, unique person. The app then creates a secure, encrypted NFT tied to your biometric data. You can use this NFT as proof without revealing your name, email, or other personal information. Privasea is currently working on its mainnet and testnet to bring this technology to more users, letting them safely access services, airdrops, and rewards in the crypto space.
Putting It All Together
Combining biometrics with NFTs and blockchain technology may sound complex, but it could be the key to a safer digital future. Instead of trusting easily stolen passwords, we trust something unique to each of us—our biology—backed by the secure mathematics of encryption and blockchain.
As developers figure out the best ways to store and manage this data, we could see more tools that let everyday people, governments, and companies tap into biometric NFTs.
Biometric NFTs offer a fresh, practical way to protect digital items, confirm our identities, and ensure we deal with real humans online. They take the security of NFTs to a higher level, making it easier to buy and sell valuable collectibles, manage digital identities, and interact safely in virtual environments.
Editor’s note: Written with the assistance of AI – Edited and fact-checked by Jason Newey.
Jason Newey is a seasoned journalist specializing in NFTs, the Metaverse, and Web3 technologies. With a background in digital media and blockchain technology, he adeptly translates complex concepts into engaging, informative articles.
The Philadelphia 76ers have introduced Spectrum Sprint, a retro-inspired mobile game developed in partnership with Crypto.com. The free-to-play game combines classic side-scrolling gameplay with web3 technology, allowing players to win digital collectibles and other prizes.
Featuring Philadelphia landmarks and a finish line at the historic Spectrum arena, the game offers fans a chance to compete across multiple levels of difficulty for rewards. Prizes range from courtside seats and exclusive event invitations to private suites for future games.
The game will also have an in-person presence at select 76ers home games through pop-up arcades, giving fans additional opportunities to play and engage with the initiative.
Source: SixersGame.com
What is Spectrum Sprint?
Spectrum Sprint uses pixel-art visuals and side-scrolling mechanics reminiscent of classic arcade games. Players guide their character through Philadelphia landmarks, including Broad Street, to reach the Spectrum arena, a venue with deep ties to the team’s history.
Participants can compete in one of four categories—Rookie, Pro, All-Star, and Legend—with leaderboards tracking the highest scores. Rewards include courtside tickets, an invitation to the Sixers Youth Foundation Gala, and a private suite for 12 guests during a game in the 2025-26 NBA season.
High scorers also unlock unique digital collectibles through the game.
Part of a Broader Initiative
The game was developed by Impossible Brief as the second installment in a three-game series celebrating the 76ers’ Nike City Edition uniforms. The first game, Buckets on Broad, debuted in November, with the final title set to launch in March.
Fans attending “Spirit of 76 Night” games can play Spectrum Sprint at pop-up arcade stations in the Wells Fargo Center. These setups will also allow participants to create Crypto.com accounts, connecting the game to the broader web3 initiative.
The partnership with Crypto.com reflects the 76ers’ approach to integrating technology into sports and fan engagement whilst highlighting key elements of the team’s legacy.
Hostess with the mostess! Lady Byrd Café owner Misty Mansouri is gearing up for the holiday season, and to celebrate, she sat down with ET to share her festive holiday party essentials.
For starters, Mansouri believes serving easy, yummy dishes is the way to go, and she’s following that approach at her own Los Angeles, California based restaurant.
Vivien Best
“Visitors can expect refined comfort foods with beautiful and fresh ingredients that work together to create simple, yet delectable and delicious dishes,” she shares.
Some menu must-haves: “Our short rib served over mashed potatoes, steak frites, seafood risotto, heartwarming soups, and chicken Milanese are seasonal favorites.”
When it comes to the decor, Mansouri embraces “the more, the merrier” mindset.
“We are loaded with elaborate Christmas trees, fluorescent lights, traditional color palettes, and velvet bows complete with fireplaces and cozy and comfy blankets,” she explains.
Vivien Best
If you can’t make it into the eatery, Mansouri says you can still get into the spirit at home.
“Go upscale with your dress code and outfit. It’s a perfect time for furs, beautiful wool, and cashmere,” she explains.
And to steer clear of any hosting mistakes, Mansouri recommends prioritizing partygoers’ needs.
“It’s going to be a cold winter, so make sure you have plenty of ways to keep your guests warm. You should also offer alternatives for alcohol beverages like fun mocktails,” she suggests.
Visit Lady Byrd Café for breakfast, lunch, aperitivo and dinner at 2100 Echo Park Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90026.