When we hear the word “metaverse”, many of us may imagine Zuckerberg’s virtual world, which has sparked mixed reactions around the world. However, the metaverse is becoming a significant force affecting many areas of life, from education and health to entertainment.

The connection between physical and digital reality through augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) brings with it countless possibilities. But as always, regulation is lagging behind, and we are forced to ask: How will we protect our information in a virtual world that collects more data than ever before?

Player One

The metaverse has tremendous potential, whether we are excited about it or afraid of it. Ernst Klein’s book “Ready Player One”, which was also made into a film, paints a picture of a future based on a virtual world that may arouse both hope and fear in us. These are the main places where we meet the metaverse today, and this is just the beginning:

– Education: Virtual learning can benefit students with mobility disabilities or those who don’t have access to quality schools. There are also programs that help adult learners.

– Healthcare: Metaverse therapy can sometimes seem risky, but there have already been proven successes in services such as remote counseling and surgical assistance.

– The world of work: Professions such as architecture and construction enjoy the opportunity to experience and understand spaces before building them. Companies like Renault already offer virtual showrooms to try out cars.

– Entertainment: The metaverse offers many leisure experiences such as social games, virtual tours, fitness, and wellness.

The food that feeds the beast

For all of this to work, data is needed. A lot of it. Health data, location tracking, work patterns, and personal habits are collected in one place. The food we give to this growing technological beast before our eyes is all the information about our lives. This information, which is mostly protected in traditional systems thanks to increased awareness in the field of network protection, may still be accessible and easier to locate when it comes to the metaverse.

And the hackers already see this as a golden opportunity and are adapting themselves to the changing reality.

A Beast? Where?

There are two main types of security risks:

  • The first is the risk of large data leaks caused by massive breaches that can expose sensitive data such as biometric information and personal preferences.
  • The second type is targeted attacks. The metaverse allows for new opportunities for personal harassment, including attacks based on the user’s appearance or location.

Self-defense in the New World

Despite the risks, there are steps that can be taken that can increase our confidence in the new metaverse.

  • Parental Restrictions: Use tools to monitor children’s activities in the metaverse.
  • Education: Talk to your loved ones about the risks and possibilities.
  • Regulatory Push: Push for laws that will protect digital information.
  • Account security: Use unique passwords and two-factor authentication.
  • Digital asset security: Purchase in regulated locations and use best practices.

The metaverse offers many possibilities that can improve our daily lives – from education and health to work and entertainment. Despite the challenges, if we act wisely, we can benefit immensely from it. But first, we need to be aware of the dangers that lurk in using it and remember that we must always be careful to protect our personal information from threats from hackers waiting for an opportunity to attack.

Meet the Author – Lihi Segev

Lihi Segev is the Executive Vice President of Technology and Engineering at Qualitest. With a strong background in engineering leadership and strategic partnerships, she has built high-performing global teams that drive AI and ML innovations across industries like telecom and gaming. Her expertise spans go-to-market strategies, analytics, and sales growth, making her a key force in advancing technology-driven quality engineering solutions.

Connect with Lihi on LinkedIn