Exploring the Negative Aspects of the Metaverse

When we encounter a new technology that amazes us, we often compare it to something we would see in a science fiction movie. However, we tend to forget that most science fiction tends to have a pessimistic tone.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that UK police were investigating their first sexual assault case related to conduct in the metaverse, which is the highly anticipated virtual reality-led next generation of social media.

According to reports, an underage teenage girl was allegedly “gang raped” within the online universe. While this is the first instance to be investigated by UK authorities, it is certainly not the first time such an incident has occurred. Sadly, it will not be the last.

It is crucial to consider what has actually taken place, apart from the limited information about this case. The fact that no physical harm can directly result from sexual violence in the metaverse is an important point to emphasize. The attack in the metaverse resembles an intensified version of online abuse or harassment, which should not be underestimated in terms of its seriousness.

Research has shown that less invasive forms of online abuse have caused significant trauma in their targets. In a 2022 paper, SumOfUs conducted research into assaults in the metaverse, specifically Meta’s Horizon Worlds. Despite being hailed by the tech elite as the future, immersive metaverse communities have faced criticism from the general public, as indicated by declining user numbers. Such communities have been reported as risky for individuals entering with a female-presenting avatar, with instances of sexual aggression and non-consensual interactions.

This presents a troubling and uncomfortable situation. Launching new versions of social networks with the potential for more realistic and invasive abuse seems irresponsible. If these communities are to grow, they need to be properly regulated with agreed-upon rules. As it stands, many have chosen to avoid the metaverse altogether.

Meta insists that applications like Horizon Worlds are intended strictly for adults, but it is evident that there are few barriers to prevent teenagers from accessing them.

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