The virtual worlds that make up the metaverse are becoming
more immersive every day. As the technology advances, it's important that
proper safety measures are in place, especially for younger users. One of the
leading metaverse platforms, Meta, recently announced new age confirmation
checks for its virtual reality users.
VR experiences can feel very real and life-like. Some games
and social worlds even allow for interacting with other avatars. While this
level of virtual interaction has benefits, it also brings risks that need to be
addressed. Meta is taking steps to better understand who is using their VR
headsets and ensure minors have appropriate protections and settings.
All Meta Quest users will now be prompted to confirm their
age when using the device. For those 13 and older, a credit card or government
ID can be used for verification. Under 13 requires parental confirmation.
Having an accurate way to determine a user's age group helps platforms and
developers tailor the experience appropriately. Minors deserve privacy
settings, content filters and other features designed with their safety and
development in mind.
Meta already has some safeguards in place for younger users.
Teens aged 13 to 17 have private profiles by default and parental controls over
app access and activity visibility. For 10 to 12-year-olds, parents have full
control through "preteen accounts." While helpful, these measures
were implemented after the fact. Proactively verifying ages could prevent
situations where kids access content not meant for them.
As the immersive qualities of VR advance, potential risks
may emerge that have not been thoroughly researched yet. Early social media saw
many harms to minors only identified in hindsight. VR could pose similar
unforeseen dangers if not carefully monitored. While not solely responsible,
platforms must consider their role in protecting users, especially kids.
There are also concerns around Meta lowering the minimum age
for accounts last year. Research shows excessive social media use can
negatively impact young people's mental health and development. Until more is
understood about VR's long-term effects, perhaps stricter age limits would be
prudent. These new confirmation checks are a step, but likely only scratch the
surface of necessary safeguards.
No technology is without both benefits and drawbacks. With
open communication and a focus on safety, the metaverse's positives can be
emphasized while mitigating problems. All involved parties, including parents,
developers and platforms like Meta, have an obligation to users.
By establishing clear age verification, appropriate privacy
defaults and robust parental controls, tech giants demonstrate prioritizing
protection without sacrificing innovation. Further research and preventative
measures will also be important as this new virtual frontier expands.
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developing content for the metaverse, be sure to check out Great SMM. As a
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to ensure the metaverse realizes its full potential while safeguarding all who
explore it.
