Immersive technology such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer children incredible opportunities. They can also put children at risk of child sexual abuse (CSA) and child sexual exploitation (CSE).

We commissioned Limina Immersive to research the risks in emerging technologies to help us identify how these risks might effectively be mitigated.

The research included interviews and focus groups with experts in emerging technologies, a literature review, primary data collection through visits to virtual reality platforms and additional desk-based research.

Based on the findings, and with support from Limina Immersive, the NSPCC has developed recommendations for government and industry on how to ensure children can remain safe in the metaverse.

Authors: Catherine Allen and Verity McIntosh

Supplementary paper on key concepts

We’ve published an additional guide to the essential concepts and technologies to be aware of when thinking about child safeguarding in extended realities (XR), such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).

This paper provides:

• a glossary of terms and definitions of key concepts such as the metaverse, interoperability, and decentralisation
• industry culture and dominant values that shape the architecture of the metaverse
• insight into which technologies are being used by children.