The Metaverse is Coming, Make It Safe
June 9, 2022
The web is providing new ways for us to connect and interact through virtual worlds called Metaverses, which combine virtual and augmented reality devices. The Metaverse blurs the lines between physical and digital worlds, expanding our understanding of virtual space and an extended reality.
Enthusiasm for the Metaverse is leading more companies to consider a Metaverse strategy. Recently, the LEGO Group and Epic Games announced they are entering into a partnership to shape the future of the Metaverse, building safe and fun experiences for children of all ages. Companies anticipate that in the not too distant future the Metaverse will become a place where people and businesses meet, work, play, and transact in goods and services.
Just as there are in the real world, there are legal, privacy, safety and health concerns in the Metaverse. Addressing these concerns in the initial project designs will therefore define success for Metaverse projects. Some of the issues to be considered are strategies to deal with harassment; heightened safety mechanisms and minimal, user-centric data collection practices; guidelines for permanently destroying biometric data; and a consent mechanism that educates users on privacy implications. The priority should be to empower adults and children with tools giving them control over their personal digital experience.
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