Protecting UK Children in the Metaverse: A Call for Online Safety Education at Middlesex University London

Understanding the Metaverse Risks for Children in the UK

The metaverse, a rapidly evolving network of interconnected 3D virtual worlds, presents exciting opportunities for entertainment, social interaction, and education. However, it also exposes children to a range of online risks that require urgent attention. Middlesex University London, along with the University of East London, has conducted groundbreaking research highlighting the critical need for enhanced online safety measures for UK children navigating the metaverse.

Key Findings from the VIRRAC 2 Report

The Virtual Reality Risks Against Children (VIRRAC) 2 Report reveals several alarming trends:

• High Exposure to Online Harms: Children in the metaverse frequently encounter inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and pressure to participate in risky behaviors.
• Psychological and Physical Impact: The immersive nature of the metaverse can intensify negative experiences, leading to psychological harm and making virtual assaults feel incredibly real.
• Unique Challenges for Children with Special Needs: Neurodiverse children, particularly those on the autism spectrum, may be more vulnerable to online manipulation and exploitation within the metaverse.

Middlesex University London Leads the Charge for Digital Education Reform

Middlesex University London recognizes the urgency of addressing these challenges and advocates for a proactive approach to online safety education. The VIRRAC 2 report recommends:

Expanding Digital Literacy Education in Primary Schools

Digital safety education should not be an afterthought but integrated into the curriculum from a young age. By equipping children with essential digital literacy skills in primary school, we empower them to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Revising Online Safety Legislation for the 3D Virtual Reality Landscape

Current online safety legislation needs to be updated to reflect the unique challenges of the metaverse. This includes addressing issues like virtual assault, identity theft, and data privacy within 3D virtual environments.

Enhancing Content Moderation and Safety-by-Design Principles

Tech companies developing metaverse platforms must prioritize safety through robust content moderation policies and the implementation of safety-by-design principles. Human oversight remains crucial for navigating complex situations and ensuring children’s well-being.

Middlesex University London: Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Citizens

Middlesex University London is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive digital environment for all. Our research and advocacy efforts aim to inform policy changes, educate the public, and empower children with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the digital age. We believe that by working together – educators, parents, policymakers, and tech companies – we can create a metaverse where children can learn, explore, and connect safely.

Take Action Today

Learn more about Middlesex University London’s commitment to online safety and explore our programs that empower future generations of digital citizens. Contact us to discuss how you can contribute to building a safer online world for children.

Explore the resources available to parents and educators on the University of East London’s YouTube channel for valuable tips and guidance on navigating the metaverse with children.

Find out more about studying Criminology at Middlesex University, a field dedicated to understanding and addressing crime in all its forms, including cybercrime: Criminology at Middlesex University