Ethics in The Metaverse: Why Data Concerns Needs to be Resolved Now, Not Later

Author: Merav Ozair

Publisher: Nasdaq

Publication Year: 2022

Summary: The following article talks about the importance of data ethics in the metaverse. Although the metaverse is not a concrete reality yet, its underlying technologies (including artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and 5G networks) all rely heavily on large amounts of data. In light of many companies implementing/developing these technologies, and with plans to build the metaverse already underway, the author highlights the importance of building a strong foundation of data ethics in an increasingly technologically-innovative world. In particular, he brings up 4 pillars that he recommends all businesses of any size can implement to create a culture of ethical data use: diversity/inclusion, data education, data accountability, and data compliance. Implementing these 4 strategies can allow businesses to reduce biases in their data, become well-versed in data security protocols, and take accountability for the use of their data in their applications/products, and who it is affecting.