Studying the Metaverse Effect on its Users

Abstract

This research is set to answer the question how Metaverse can be a dangerous space for its users. Metaverse is a collection of Meta applications such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Oculus that is integrated into virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). To answer the question, different issues that were undertaken in the history of Meta and its CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, was taken into account to see the potential negative effects it will have on end-users.

The potential issues Metaverse can have includes issues with uneven power distribution, issues with cyber security and privacy threats, and negative impact on the user’s mental health. An interview was conducted and the results supported the prior claims, with an emphasis on the dangers of lack of security and privacy leaks and breaches, followed by mental health concerns, then lack of regulations, followed by spread of misinformation and abuse of power. The solutions to these issues consisted of adding and adopting better regulations, integrating a monitoring system, and including a function for tracking and limiting end-user’s screentime. Alas, technology and the internet are ever-changing and needs constant evaluation and regulations, especially if it is from a big tech-company such as Meta. A company is useless without its customers, so keeping them safe should always be a top priority.