New research has shown that an increasing number of minors are using virtual reality (VR) apps, but many parents are unaware of the security and privacy risks associated with these technologies. The study found that few parents are actively addressing these issues, such as using parental controls built into the apps. The researchers conducted interviews with parents of children who use VR apps to understand their perceptions of the risks and the strategies they use to protect their children’s security and privacy.
Parents were primarily concerned about physiological development issues related to VR, such as potential damage to eyesight or injuries while using the apps. There were also concerns about children interacting with potentially harmful individuals online and sharing too much personal information with strangers. While parents were aware of the possibility of data surveillance by VR companies, they were more worried about risks of unintended self-disclosures in social VR apps. VR technologies capture a variety of data, from user movement to voice recordings, raising concerns about potential misuse.
In terms of risk management strategies, parents were having conversations with their children about online safety and monitoring their VR app use by sharing accounts. However, very few parents were actually using the parental controls built into the VR technologies. Some parents felt their children were more tech-savvy and wanted to give them autonomy, while others faced technical challenges in activating the controls. There were also desires for additional features in parental controls, such as summaries of their child’s activities while using a specific app.
Parents felt they had the primary responsibility for protecting their children from VR risks, but they also believed that VR companies should incorporate user-friendly parental controls to help mitigate these risks. Additionally, parents felt that policymakers should be knowledgeable about emerging technologies to create or modify laws that protect children online. Lastly, parents believed that schools should play a role in teaching children how to safely navigate new technologies. It is crucial for parents to understand VR and its risks before allowing their children to use it, but it is vital for all stakeholders to take proactive steps to safeguard children in VR environments.
Overall, the study highlights the importance of awareness and proactive measures to address security and privacy risks in VR technology use among minors. While parents play a central role in protecting their children, collaboration among educators, developers, policymakers, and others is essential to ensure comprehensive protection for children in VR environments. With further research and support from organizations like Meta Research, efforts can be made to enhance children’s safety and privacy in the rapidly evolving landscape of VR technology.
