Study reveals rising risks of harassment and exploitation for youth in the metaverse

A new study shows that youth are increasingly at risk of harassment and exploitation in the metaverse. Researchers surveyed over 5,000 U.S. teens and found that 44% experienced hate speech, while 35% faced harassment. Girls reported higher rates of sexual harassment and grooming. The study highlights that many teens do not use available safety features, such as blocking or reporting tools. It also notes that girls are more likely to employ in-platform safety measures compared to boys. As virtual reality use grows among teens, the study emphasizes the need for improved safety measures and education on navigating these digital spaces responsibly.