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Description

This commentary examines the national security implications of iris-based biometric identity systems such as “The Orb,” a device designed to verify human users in an AI-saturated digital environment. While proof-of-personhood technologies may help counter synthetic media, bot networks, and AI-driven disinformation, the authors argue that centralized biometric identity infrastructures create significant strategic vulnerabilities. Risks include surveillance, coercion, identity forgery, cyber-espionage, financial manipulation, and potential use in cognitive warfare or critical infrastructure disruption. The article outlines governance and security recommendations to mitigate dual-use threats. Orb-like systems could either strengthen democratic resilience or become instruments of strategic influence, depending on how they are regulated and secured.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Emerging Science and Technologies, National Security, Information Operations

Region(s)

United States

Publication Date

7-1-2025

Keywords

biometric identity, iris recognition, proof of humanity, World ID, Worldcoin, digital identity systems, artificial intelligence security, cognitive warfare, cyber-espionage, critical infrastructure protection, digital governance, biometric data security, AI influence operations, national security technology, dual-use technology

The Orb’s Eye: Seeing the National Security Implications of Iris Based ‘Proof of Humanity’

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