Abstract
The metaverse, a virtual shared space, has the potential to revolutionize how we access and use digital libraries. As the metaverse becomes more widely adopted, it is essential to consider the role of cybersecurity in protecting these virtual environments and users' personal and financial information. In this chapter, the case study examined the intersection of metaverse and cybersecurity in a digital library context. It focuses on ensuring the security of the library's metaverse. The authors discuss the various cybersecurity measures implemented in the digital library's metaverse, including authentication protocols, encryption, and firewalls. They also explore the potential risks and challenges associated with the metaverse and how effective cybersecurity measures mitigate these risks. Understanding the intersection of the metaverse and cybersecurity in a digital library context ensures these virtual shared spaces' continued growth and success and safe and secure access to the information they contain.
TopIntroduction
The metaverse, a virtual shared space that allows users to interact with each other and virtual objects and environments in real time, has gained widespread attention and adoption in recent years as the technology needed to support it has become more advanced (Kim, 2021). This virtual world has the potential to revolutionize how we live and work. As it becomes more integrated into our daily lives, it is essential to consider the role of cybersecurity in protecting these virtual environments and users’ personal and financial information.
Cybersecurity, the practice of protecting computer systems and networks from digital attacks, theft, and damage, is crucial for ensuring the security and integrity of the metaverse. However, there are also potential risks and challenges associated with the metaverse, and effective cybersecurity measures are necessary to mitigate these threats. Hackers and cybercriminals attempt to gain access to the metaverse systems and steal sensitive information. In addition, users of the metaverse must also be aware of cybersecurity risks and take steps to protect their own personal and financial information. It may include using strong passwords, keeping software and systems up to date, and being cautious about sharing personal information online. Ensuring the security of the metaverse and protecting its users’ personal and financial information is essential for maintaining trust and enabling the continued growth of this virtual shared space (Narayan et al., 2022).
A metaverse is a virtual shared space created by converging virtually enhanced physical reality and physically persistent virtual space, including the sum of all virtual worlds, augmented reality, and the internet. The word “metaverse” is a portmanteau of the prefix “meta” (meaning “beyond”) and “universe,” and it describes as a collaborative virtual shared space that creates the convergence of virtually enhanced physical reality and physically persistent virtual space. In a metaverse, users interact with each other and virtual objects and environments in real time. These virtual spaces range from simple chat rooms and forums to complex, immersive virtual worlds. Some metaverses are based on specific themes, such as science fiction or fantasy, while others are more general. One example of a metaverse is Second Life, a virtual world that allows users to create avatars, interact with other users, and explore a vast, immersive virtual environment (Lee et al., 2021). Other examples include World of Warcraft, The Matrix Online, and The Sims Online. Metaverses are often seen as the next step in the evolution of the internet, as they allow for more significant interaction and immersion in virtual environments. Some people believe that the development of metaverses will significantly impact how we live and work in the future.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Digital Libraries: Collections of digital content, such as books and articles, made accessible through a computer or device.
Metaverse: A shared virtual space accessed through the internet, allowing users to interact with each other and virtual objects in an immersive way.
Personal Information: Data that can be used to identify an individual, such as their name and address.
Financial Information: Data related to an individual’s financial accounts, transactions, and assets.
Cybersecurity: Protect computer systems, networks, and devices from cyber threats like hacking and malware.
Authentication Protocols: Methods for verifying a user’s or device’s identity before granting access to a network or resource.
Virtual Environments: Digital simulations of natural or imagined spaces that users can interact with through computer graphics and other technologies.
Virtual Shared Space: A digital environment where multiple users can interact in real-time, including virtual reality or gaming environments.