The ‘Online Privacy Bill,’ which extends online safety regulations to virtual worlds like the eagerly awaited Metaverse, has reportedly been approved by the UK Parliament. The legislation, which was unveiled in March of last year, aims to hold businesses responsible for identifying and reducing any risks that kids may face when interacting with virtual environments.
Companies working in the digital sector, particularly those providing access to virtual worlds like the Metaverse, will be required to carry out extensive risk assessments under the requirements of the Online Privacy Bill. These evaluations will determine how likely it is that children will come across hazardous content in these virtual worlds. Companies will therefore need to put strong measures in place to effectively reduce these risks.
The passage of this legislation represents a concerted effort on the part of British legislators to address the escalating concerns about online safety, particularly in virtual environments. The security of its users, particularly the younger population, has become crucial as the Metaverse emerges as a major digital frontier. Before becoming a law, the Online Privacy Bill is still awaiting King Charles’ approval. The bill’s immediate implementation following royal assent will strengthen the country’s commitment to maintaining a secure online environment for all of its residents.
This development fits into a larger worldwide trend of policing online environments and shielding users from potential damages that can occur there. It makes it clear that the UK is dedicated to maintaining its leadership in internet safety and will modify its laws to take into account how the digital age is changing.
