Often touted as the next frontier in communications technology, the Metaverse promises virtual communities where people can interact, collaborate and do business using virtual reality devices.
However, with growing interest from tech giants such as Meta (formerly Facebook), Google, Microsoft, and NVIDIA, there are concerns about the potential for bad actors to exploit the Metaverse.
To address these concerns, Israeli cyberterrorism expert Dr. Gabriel Wyman, in collaboration with co-author Roy Dimant, has developed a study proposing preemptive measures to address potential cyberterrorism threats in the emerging metaverse. recently announced.
In his research, Wyman emphasizes the need to break the cycle of innovation and action that characterizes virtual battlefields where non-state actors wield significant influence and expertise.
Metaverse protection
The authors advocate promoting public-private partnerships to combat the terrorist use of the Internet, working with developers in the early stages of Metaverse deployments to build in security measures from the start, and strong identification to protect user identities. It recommends several steps, including the introduction of policies.
This research suggests early involvement of civil society, law enforcement, and metaverse platform designers to establish necessary prerequisites during development. Monitoring the progress of the Metaverse is also recommended to balance national security concerns and privacy rights, as noted in a recent EUROPOL report.
Robust identification policies are proposed for individuals entering the metaverse to promote a secure environment. Requiring identity verification when creating an account reduces the risk of identity theft.
Educating users, especially young people, about cybersecurity measures and precautions within the Metaverse is crucial, and schools play a key role in this effort.
Users should be aware of potential financial crimes and fraud within the Metaverse. Companies that operate in virtual spaces are expected to work with safety and risk teams to identify vulnerabilities, alert employees to potential threats, and thoroughly test applications before launch. I’m here.
The attractiveness of the Metaverse as a communication platform lies in its “presence” and “embodiment” that allow you to experience direct communication and materialization in the virtual world. However, these features themselves present opportunities for manipulation and deceptive influence, making regulation and management difficult.
As the metaverse continues to evolve, this study highlights the importance of engaging all parties in the development of the metaverse and staying up-to-date on potential exploits.
“The history of the internet and related technologies has taught us that multiple unintended consequences are likely to occur, so the unintended side effects of innovation can have the most significant consequences.” said Wyman.
“Whatever the outcome, all parties should participate in the development of the Metaverse or similar platform and stay informed about future products. “Understanding what is devising is essential to developing a first-strike strategy to counter terrorist attacks within the Metaverse.”
