Sam Altman's Iris-Scan Startup Faces Financial Probes and Regulatory Scrutiny

Tools for Humanity, Sam Altman’s iris-scanning startup behind Worldcoin, hired two law firms to investigate financial irregularities and possible bribery in Thailand; one probe examined a rollout partner linked to a South African businessman accused of cyber-fraud, and another looked at six- and seven-figure payments to a foreign firm alleged to boost Worldcoin’s value, potentially implicating SEC rules. The company severed ties with the Thai partner, tightened controls, and says there’s no evidence of FCPA violations. The saga adds to regulatory scrutiny of iris-data projects and Worldcoin, amid global roadblocks, staff turnover, and recent layoffs, with Altman remaining on the board.