China Warns of Crypto Token Scams Harvesting Iris Data
China's Ministry of State Security has issued a public alert regarding cryptocurrency token giveaways being used as bait to collect iris scans. Foreign entities are reportedly offering digital assets in exchange for biometric data, with sensitive eye information being transmitted overseas.
The practice raises significant privacy and national security concerns. Iris data, once compromised, could enable identity theft, espionage, or cybercrime operations. Authorities emphasize that biometric information cannot be changed like passwords, making permanent data breaches particularly dangerous.
This warning comes amid growing global scrutiny of cryptocurrency-related scams. While blockchain technology offers transparency, bad actors continue exploiting token incentives to harvest valuable personal data. The ministry advises citizens to reject any offers trading crypto rewards for biometric markers.