World open-sources ProveKit for privacy-preserving identity proofs

World, the human identity startup formerly known as Worldcoin, has open-sourced ProveKit, a toolkit for creating zero-knowledge proofs that verify identity claims without exposing personal data.

The toolkit, already used in World ID, allows users to prove attributes like age, nationality, or valid ID ownership on their own devices. Verifiers only receive confirmation of the claim, not the underlying information, according to a World Foundation spokesperson.

ProveKit uses local proof generation, meaning sensitive data never leaves the user’s device, reducing the risk of exposure. It supports the Noir programming language for zero-knowledge applications and runs on standard consumer hardware, including smartphones and browsers.

How ProveKit works

• Generates cryptographic proofs on a user’s phone or browser.
• Proves claims (e.g., age, nationality) without revealing personal details.
• Targets 128-bit post-quantum security and requires no trusted setup.
• Production-ready for off-chain verification; v2 in development for on-chain use.

Why privacy-preserving proofs matter

World emphasized the need for neutral, permissionless identity verification tools amid growing concerns over data breaches. The release follows reports of a dark web service selling millions of stolen driver’s license scans, highlighting risks in traditional identity verification.

Remco Bloemen, head of blockchain at World Foundation, argued that identity documents should only be authenticated using zero-knowledge proofs to avoid unnecessary exposure of personal details.

What’s next for ProveKit

World is developing ProveKit v2 to reduce proof size, proving time, and memory usage, with potential support for Groth16, a proving scheme compatible with blockchains like Ethereum and Solana. The current version is optimized for off-chain verification by servers and mobile devices.

Sources

• The Block