Humanity Protocol, a decentralized identity project backed by Polygon Labs and Animoca Brands, recently launched its testnet and attracted an impressive 25,000 sign-ups within the first 24 hours. The protocol is designed to provide a secure and user-friendly way to verify identity using zero-knowledge proofs and non-invasive biometrics, with the goal of mitigating risks associated with centralized data storage.
A testnet is a blockchain environment in which developers and users can experiment with new technologies without risking real assets. It allows a project to test features and functionalities before a full launch, gathering crucial feedback from early adopters.
In Humanity Protocol’s case, the testnet is being rolled out in three phases. The first phase, which is currently live, allows users to reserve their unique Human ID, a credential that will serve as their identity across the ecosystem.
The Humanity Protocol aims to give individuals control over their own data through advanced Proof of Humanity (PoH) technology. CEO and founder Terence Kwok highlighted the significance of the launch, noting that the overwhelming response “reaffirms the demand for a more secure and user-friendly way to verify identity without sacrificing personal data.”
With a recent valuation of $1 billion after securing $30 million in seed funding, the project is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the identity verification landscape—though it faces serious competition from Worldcoin, the Sam Altman-led digital identity platform that uses iris biometrics to prove the uniqueness of its users. Worldcoin currently has over 10 million users and has established an extensive global presence, though it has attracted considerable regulatory scrutiny in the process.
Looking ahead, the second and third phases of the testnet will introduce palm print registration via a mobile app and full enrollment through palm vein verification on dedicated devices. These biometric features are designed to provide an extra layer of security while maintaining user privacy. Humanity Protocol is pitching its palm vein scanning is virtually impossible to replicate.
To help generate further interest in the platform, Humanity Protocol is offering early adopters rewards. Users who refer friends and family to the platform can earn a portion of testnet tokens, with further opportunities to unlock additional rewards, such as airdrops, as the platform continues to evolve.
Sources: Crypto Briefing, Humanity Protocol
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October 3, 2024 – by Cass Kennedy and Alex Perala
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