The metaverse is a site of new forms of sexual violence, with female-presenting avatars far more likely to experience multiple forms of abuse, from simulated groping and harassment to rape. This report, co-produced by the Alliance for Universal Digital Rights, Equality Now, and Vulnera, explores the effects of this new form of technology-facilitated abuse in the metaverse, and the potential for applying and adapting existing criminal laws to metaverse scenarios.
Real-world impacts of the metaverse
The metaverse’s promise is tarnished by increasing incidents of sexual violence, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change.
The lines between virtual and physical realities are becoming increasingly blurred.
Violence and abuse experienced in the virtual world has real-world effects. The repercussions of digital sexual violence extend into the real world, affecting victims’ physical and mental well-being. Trauma responses in victims mirror “real world” scenarios.
Female -presenting avatars face escalating instances of sexual violence, including sexual groping, harassment, and other violations, usually carried out by their male counterparts. These gender-based harms negatively impact users and lead many to disengage from this new reality and society, further exacerbating the digital divide.
