Why Meta’s Plan to Allow 10-12 Year Olds to Use VR Chat and Calls is a Risky Move

Meta’s recent announcement that 10-12 year olds will soon be able to engage in chats and calls in VR under parental supervision may seem like a step towards connecting youngsters in a safe environment. However, the presence of parental oversight does not eliminate the potential risks associated with young children interacting in virtual reality experiences.

The impact of social media on younger audiences has been a topic of concern for health professionals and policymakers. Studies have shown that social media usage can have harmful effects on the development and mental health of children and teenagers. The implementation of stricter age limits and regulations, such as the “Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids” act in New York and similar laws in Florida and Maryland, highlight the growing recognition of the risks posed by social media platforms.

Heightened Risks in VR

Virtual reality offers a more immersive and consuming digital experience compared to traditional social media platforms. The risks of negative comparison and bullying, which are already concerns in the social media space, could be further heightened in VR environments. Meta’s own experiences with reports of sexual harassment and virtual assault in its VR platform emphasize the potential dangers of allowing younger users access to VR social elements.

While Meta’s goal may be to attract a younger user base to fuel its metaverse vision, it is important to consider the long-term consequences of allowing children as young as 10 to engage in VR chats and calls. The lack of comprehensive understanding of the potential dangers, combined with the existing risks associated with social media and VR platforms, should serve as a warning sign for proceeding with caution.

Meta’s decision to lower the age limit for accessing VR social elements raises significant concerns about the well-being and safety of young users. Despite the implementation of parental oversight and age verification processes, the inherent risks associated with virtual reality experiences cannot be overlooked. It is crucial for stakeholders, including parents, policymakers, and tech companies like Meta, to prioritize the protection and welfare of children in the digital age.