The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has released a concerning report, revealing that sexually and violently explicit content in online virtual worlds is easily accessible by minors.
Minors’ Exposure to Explicit Content in Online Gaming
Titled “Virtual Worlds and Kids: Mapping the Risks,” the congressionally mandated FTC report urges operators of these virtual platforms to enforce stricter controls. The study found that children and teenagers are frequently exposed to inappropriate material within these gaming worlds, prompting a call to action.
FTC Chairman Calls for Action
FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz expressed concern over the findings. “It is far too easy for children and young teens to access explicit content in some of these virtual worlds,” Leibowitz said. He urged companies to “implement better practices to protect kids.”
The Scope of the FTC Study
The FTC investigation included a comprehensive examination of 27 different online virtual worlds. These environments varied in their target demographics, appealing to children, teenagers, and adults.
The results were alarming. The FTC found at least one instance of explicit content, either sexual or violent, in 19 out of the 27 worlds analyzed. Out of these, five had a heavy amount of explicit content, four had a moderate amount, and the remaining 10 contained only a low amount of such content.
Child-Oriented Virtual Worlds Under the Lens
In the context of child-oriented virtual worlds, those catering to users under the age of 13, seven out of 14 worlds examined were free from explicit content. However, six contained a low amount of such content, and one exhibited a moderate amount. Explicit content in these environments primarily manifested as text in chat rooms, message boards, or forums.
Teen- and Adult-Oriented Virtual Worlds: A Hotbed of Explicit Content
Worlds targeting teens and adults presented an even greater concern. Out of 13 such worlds examined, 12 contained explicit content. Half of this content was text-based, while the other half appeared as graphic imagery, occasionally coupled with audio.
In conclusion, while online virtual worlds offer opportunities for fun and social interaction, they also present risks. To ensure the safety of our children, it is crucial for both parents and virtual world operators to be vigilant and proactive in managing these potential dangers.
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