Canon on the data in the Metaverse

Canon, the Tokyo-based Japanese multinational company specializing in optical, imaging, and industrial products, has commented on the hot and sensitive topic of the Metaverse and all that comes with it, in the positive and negative sides.

The metaverse is a very topical issue that is increasingly being debated, not only in the technology sector. Its development is undoubtedly an extremely interesting prospect, especially for gamers and movie lovers, who will be able to enjoy even more intense experiences and, probably, reach unprecedented levels of involvement.

Canon has its say on the dangers of the Metaverse

Although the above possibilities are exciting, there is still little knowledge of the true impact of the metaverse on users, as it is a technology in its infancy. It is no exaggeration to say that there may be a “dark side,” with some dangers related to data privacy, excessive tracking, and user manipulation.

Without appropriate measures in place, uncontrolled use of the metaverse could also cause security problems. How then, Canon wondered, can users and companies prepare for this as the platform inevitably grows?

The debate about what exactly the Metaverse will look like is still open, but what is certain is that this technology will create an immersive experience for users. Therefore, technologies such as VR headsets and goggles will become increasingly important, and no doubt more and more personal data about the user will be collected.

Information such as eye movement, heart rate, sweating, and pupil dilation or contraction will be used by the metaverse to respond to the user’s reaction in real-time and modify the environment accordingly. However, it is likely that many unknowing users may unintentionally consent to share sensitive and personal information.

When combined, these unintended reactions may reveal key information about a person’s emotional state and subconscious, which could then be collected and used to their detriment.

For example, they could be exploited to unduly influence purchasing decisions, to manipulate a person’s actions, or even by companies to monitor employee productivity, increasing stress levels in the work environment.

Another factor to consider is that the metaverse could amplify many of the risks we face as a society today, with serious implications for privacy, tracking, and manipulation. We could see cases of “theft” of digital assets such as NFTs, complaints about potential copyright infringement on digital avatars, and new levels of “trolling” in the form of stalking and harassment.

Data at the heart of the Metaverse

In any case, despite all the predictions of those in the tech industry, the metaverse is still a concept in its infancy. Not all the possible use cases and applications are known to fully assess the risks. However, one certainty is there, and that is that data will be at the center of everything.

As the metaverse develops, we will most likely reach a tipping point that will require strengthened governance. Regarding how user data is captured and used and how regulations are enforced.

The difficulty is that we will probably have to wait for the worst to happen before we completely understand what regulations are needed. only at this point that we can respond accordingly. The problem is obvious: while use cases are being created, people in the metaverse are exposed to unknown risks.

However, the proposed European AI Regulation can come in support in this regard. Already from that draft, one can see the attention placed by the European legislator on the need to ensure the proper balance between modern technology. Necessary for the proper implementation of even data protection techniques, and privacy.

New regulation will apply, if it is approved, to vendors who market or commission artificial intelligence systems. whether those vendors are based in the European Union or are located in a third country but the system is used in the EU.

The Commission takes a risk-based approach by distinguishing between unacceptable risk, high risk, limited risk, and minimal risk.

The Metaverse is not just a dangerous concept: the positives according to Canon

In any case, there are also many positive ways in which the metaverse can affect society and people’s lives. Canon argues, such as more effective education and better patient care. And it will be very interesting to see how these areas develop in the years to come.

For now, however, users and companies interacting with the metaverse need to be as aware as possible of the potential risks. Only through a vigilant attitude can we best prepare ourselves and mitigate potential negative impacts.

This will be the key to taking full advantage of the incredible technological developments offered by the metaverse and properly using its infinite potential.

Speaking of which, Giovanna Nuzzo, Chief Information Officer of Canon Italy said:

“Personally I’m very curious to see how the Metaverse will evolve. Today we see only some of the benefits and potential developments in the world of e-commerce, training, or smart working. We know that for all systems, informational and physical, risk can be reduced, but not 100% eliminated.”

The same consideration applies to the Metaverse, the place where physical reality and the virtual world mix. Thus, the same levers relied upon for risk mitigation must be used: cybersecurity, risk analysis & management, and expertise.

All while waiting for European institutions, where possible, to step in to regulate the Metaverse. In this regard, Canon recommends the Zero Trust approach, where IT overlays multiple layers of security in the infrastructure, integrating them with appropriate policies.

Curious users are also advised to caution brought about by the knowledge that in any environment whether physical, social, or technological, we are susceptible to fraud, violence or other forms of cybercrime.

So, to keep digital identities safe, according to Canon, one must be informed, keep devices and apps up-to-date, and use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication. Above all, one must be aware that personal data is our most cherished asset, which we must protect without ever letting our guard down.