Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
British authorities are investigating a case where a child’s digital persona was allegedly sexually assaulted in the metaverse, sparking a call for tighter security measures for young users.
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) has expressed concern, highlighting the potential for online abuse to cause real-world harm. This incident, believed to be the UK’s first police probe into a sexual offense in virtual reality, involved a girl under 16 who was reportedly traumatized while using an augmented reality headset.
The metaverse, a 3D internet realm where users interact through avatars, is increasingly popular among children, with 21% of those aged five to ten owning a virtual reality headset in 2022. Richard Collard from the NSPCC emphasized the severe impact online sexual abuse can have, saying, “Online sexual abuse has a devastating impact on children – and in immersive environments where senses are intensified, harm can be experienced in very similar ways to the real world. Companies must act now and step up their efforts to protect children from abuse in virtual reality spaces. It is crucial that tech firms can see and understand the harm taking place on their services and law enforcement have access to all the evidence and resources required to safeguard children.”
As part of its recommendations, the NSPCC has urged the government to provide more support and guidance to officers handling virtual reality offenses. It also called for regular reviews of the Online Safety Act to ensure it keeps pace with new technological threats.
