How to Join Metaverse? What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

What is the metaverse?

The metaverse is an immersive virtual reality where users can interact with each other digitally in real time. Right now, it’s considered one of the potential versions of the Internet future, as it offers more captivating, interconnected, and adaptive experiences. 

The metaverse functions in the following way. Through its design the metaverse develops a three-dimensional virtual area where human users appear as digital representations or avatars. The concept remains difficult to define because it keeps developing. Virtual innovation shows up in different digital technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain because the metaverse operates beyond being a technological system.

The metaverse is now mostly associated with gaming since such platforms open up excellent opportunities to implement its core ideas. But let’s not forget that Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, keeps investing billions of dollars into metaverse-related technologies. Apparently, he is convinced that it’s set to transform how people shop, play, socialize, and generally spend time online.

With that said, we will investigate the different crucial components underlying the metaverse.

Key specifics of the metaverse

Here are the main features of the metaverse (or rather its current state and nature – again, things may change tremendously in the future).

• Immersive experience. The metaverse provides users a distinctive way to experience a complete digital environment. VR and AR technologies enable users to enter virtual reality environments through haptic-based social and visual communication scenarios. Users interact with game environments or workspaces directly instead of observing them from outside in a similar way to being inside the actual space.
• Seamless movement. Users can move throughout the metaverse by using digital avatars, which provide them with the freedom to travel and interact with others. Many interconnected applications enable safe traveling between virtual locations within the metaverse framework. However, all of these features remain unfinished (although they are still far from being ready to enjoy).
• Decentralized nature. The metaverse doesn’t belong to a certain organization or company. The system functions as a shared environment which users can personalize and operate without assistance. Users benefit from blockchain technology to maintain secure storage of their data identities together with digital assets.
• Internal economy. The metaverse provides a large online marketplace that enables users to trade cryptocurrencies and NFTs. All participants within a blockchain-based economic system can conduct transactions through it.
• Social connections. As with any other digital environment, communication is at the core of the metaverse. People can interact with other users through text and voice chats and group meetings and gaming activities .
• User-generated content (UGC). The metaverse’s content is created directly by users, not by developers. Through user customization, the metaverse continuously transforms into a new reality that depends on all those who participate in it.

But many aspects of the metaverse remain in the development phase because the technology exists at an early stage. The virtual world now exists as millions of people want to become part of it. Users can already access the metaverse functionalities. So, what can you do there for now? Let’s clear things up. 

What can you do in the metaverse in 2024?

Here are a few things you can already do in the metaverse.

• Create a custom avatar. Your avatar is a fictional character representing you in the metaverse. You can choose any desired appearance, including body, hairstyle, gender, and so on.
• Make virtual real-estate investments. Users access the metaverse to exchange digital properties and virtual land plots by using their digital assets.
• Collaborate with colleagues. To engage colleagues, you may join their online workspace and share daily meeting areas. You can also work there and use different collaboration tools with virtual reality keyboards and digital boards.
• Meet new people. With virtual reality tools, you are able to connect with people from anywhere in the world while enjoying better digital experience over basic social networks.
• Enhance your shopping experience. The use of VR in the metaverse also allows you to explore the items in virtual reality before making a purchase.
• Trade NFTs. Digital artwork on blockchain technology lets you enhance your trading adventure.
• Jump into VR gaming. As mentioned, the metaverse is currently the most popular among gamers. You can play virtual reality games online while using and buying assets from other players.

As of now, the massive interconnected metaverse environment which produces buzz remains unavailable to users yet people can get insights into its probable form. The next section provides an overview of the top virtual platforms available for membership.

7 best metaverse platforms so far

Here’s a brief look at the existing metaverse platforms.

1. Minecraft

Users in this game develop 3D building elements to construct digital environments which range from castles to cities to farms. The game allows users engage with other players through gaming elements and enables community creation.

But note that the VR possibilities in Minecraft are somewhat limited, as this feature is only available in a so-called Living Room, where the gameplay is fixed on the virtual screen in front of a player.

2. Roblox

Roblox is a the superior virtual universe that enables users to generate new virtual worlds alongside social interaction possibilities. Roblox offers an entertaining and highly immersive experience for gaming fans. Also, it has become a place where brands like Nike and Gucci let customers explore their products.

3. Pokémon Go

Technically, Pokémon Go is not the metaverse, as this famous video gaming with a physical world uses AR technology. It is worth trying to experience this immersive technology through AR 
because of its potential influence on metaverse development.

4. Decentraland

Users in this metaverse system can access a digital world to buy and sell real estate properties using the Decentraland-specific cryptocurrency. The Web3 platform utilizes blockchain technology for a game trading experience built from distinct gaming and crypto-trading elements.

5. Second Life

This multimedia platform was launched back in 2003, which makes it the very first attempt to introduce something similar to the metaverse. Basically, a person can live their “second life” by creating an avatar and interacting with a vast, active community. It also allows you to create various objects, play adventure games, and more.

6. Fortnite

The Fortnite release in 2017 led to its massive success among players who joined this imaginative metaverse world. This battle royale game lets users implement their creative ideas, while famous brands can also test the opportunities of the latest technologies. On top of that, famous singers and bands like Travis Scott, Billie Eilish, and Grimes performed their virtual shows on this platform.

7. Nvidia Omniverse

Unlike many examples of gaming platforms giving us a hint of what the metaverse will look like, The Nvidia Omniverse serves the needs of 3D design specialists. Users can team up and use different tools while accessing shared spaces for the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

After this review of available metaverse platforms, we will explore how to access them.

How can we attend the metaverse?

First of all, let‘s figure out what you need to join the metaverse. Here are the essentials:

• Stable Internet connection. The metaverse enables large-scale access to virtual reality so it can have considerable bandwidth requirements. Having good connection quality during metaverse entry is essential for achieving maximum experience.
• A relevant device. In some cases, a smartphone or tablet may be enough to enter a metaverse platform. But to get the most out of a virtual reality experiences, you need a gaming laptop or PC system.
• But to explore the full capabilities of virtual reality, you will need a powerful gaming laptop or a PC.
• A VR headset: You don’t necessarily need a VR headset to join the metaverse. But again, if you strive for a fully immersive experience, it’s highly recommended to get one. Also, it’s worth mentioning that some metaverse platforms won’t function without it (for example, Meta’s Horizon won’t work without the Oculus Quest 2 headset). According to certain platforms, you must wear augmented reality glasses.
• Digital assets: As said, some metaverse platforms allow for making digital purchases using cryptocurrencies and assets like NFTs. You will require these to get the most out of a specific platform.

Various metaverse platforms require separate terms and settings to navigate them. Below, we will discuss the most common steps you need to take to join the metaverse with or without a VR headset. 

How to join the metaverse with a VR headset

Getting familiar with the metaverse using a VR headset, such as Oculus Quest 2, gives you a more enticing experience. By adding built-in sensors to this technology you can tour 3D spaces. Hand controllers might also simplify moving through digital landscapes. A built-in sensor system enables you to explore 3Dspace with hand controllers that simplify travel inside virtual reality.

Here’s how to enter the metaverse with the Oculus Quest 2 VR headset:

1. Adjust your VR headset. Download the Oculus application on your device and create an account.
2. Choose your preferred metaverse platform. Opt for the virtual reality application that suits you best and download it.
3. Find the application in your device’s app menu. Next, open the app to get started.
4. All set! Dive into the metaverse of your choice and have fun.

Now, what if you don’t have a VR headset in place? In that case, you’ll need an alternative method to join the metaverse.

How to join the metaverse without a VR headset

Riding without VR gear is possible on different metaverse platforms like Decentraland, Roblox, Minecraft, Sandbox, Pokémon Go and Fortnite. You can access Decentraland even without special hardware using these steps: 

1. Open the Decentraland website and click Jump In at the top right corner of the window.

2. Create your account and pick an avatar. Also, you can choose between Play as a guest and Play with your wallet options (if you choose the second option, you will use a crypto wallet, such as MetaMask or Fortmatic). 

3. Done! You’re now ready to discover the metaverse, play, purchase real estate, and trade digital assets.

Okay, now you know how to access the metaverse with or without a VR headset. However, it’s also critical to mention that innovative virtual reality comes with certain security pitfalls. Let’s take a look at the most significant metaverse risks to watch out for.

Main metaverse cybersecurity risks

Just as with other online networks the metaverse features security risks:

• Identity theft. Cybercriminals may try to expose your digital identity in the metaverse by compromising your confidential data. The possible cyber-threats leading to such an outcome include account hacks, stolen passwords, phishing, and malware distribution.
• Cyberbullying. People use virtual worlds for entertainment, education, and also for destructive activities online.The risks of online bullying and stalking have been existing for decades but now they keep changing and becoming more threatening as they affect younger digital users.
• Social engineering tricks. Cybercriminals use many tricks such as phishing emails and messages to entice people into clicking harmful links or sharing sensitive information on unreliable websites. These platforms follow the same pattern as other platforms when it comes to security risks. A scammer can impersonate a legit service, requiring you to take some urgent steps (for instance, claiming that your password is about to expire) only to get their hands on your credentials.
• Crypto hacks. Since the metaverse is closely related to blockchain-based technologies, cryptocurrencies, and NFTs, one should also be aware of the associated cybersecurity risks. Considering that the world of crypto is relatively new, some protection measures are still far from perfect, leaving space for cybercriminals to act. Bitcoin scams, fake investment scams, and pump-and-dump schemes represent the major types of crypto breaches.

After reviewing the major risks of using the metaverse we will explore proven methods for staying protected.

How to protect yourself in the metaverse

You can boost metaverse security without advanced software knowledge or technical abilities. Adopting simple securityrules and smart business methods will enable you to explore metaverse platforms with security assurance.

• Don’t overshare your data. Do not disclose sensitive personal information and financial details to strangers when using the metaverse. The same rule applies to common social media platforms, gaming sites, online forums, and so on.
• Create strong and unique passwords. Create your metaverse account password from a mix of 14 characters using both uppercase and lowercase letters plus numbers and symbols. Don’t use one platform for multiple accounts. If you do, it makes you vulnerable to password-stuffing attacks.
• Shield yourself from phishing attacks. Be cautious about opening seemingly legit emails from services because scams commonly start from authentic platforms. Verify the email sender address before you take actions and be wary of unknown links or files to keep your device safe.
• Use two-factor authentication (2FA). This measure will protect your metaverse account better because it blocks unauthorized access even when someone knows your login credentials.
• Use legitimate metaverse platforms. Choose a metaverse platform that is 100% legit and secure. You may encounter dangerous websites that steal your information by pretending to be official services. Your data will be stolen and you become vulnerable to harmful threats when you use these unsafe websites.
• Use a virtual private network (VPN). A premium VPN service is an essential cybersecurity tool for those who strive to explore the metaverse for several reasons. 

The software hides your IP address together with your sensitive data and provides privacy and security through secure Internet presence. The second benefit of VPN usage is encryption which creates secure online traffic that makes hacking attempts much more difficult for attackers.

Safeguard your metaverse experience with VeePN

Need a simple and affordable tool to protect yourself in the metaverse? Try VeePN! Our reputable VPN service comes with a bunch of important features to strengthen your defenses whatever you’re up to online:

• AES-256 encryption. This encryption standard provides maximum protection of your private data while blocking unwanted surveillance attempts.
• NetGuard. With this feature you will steer clear from phishing links along with DDoS attacks and public Wi-Fi threats and other Internet dangers.
• Kill Switch. The feature protects your private information from disclosure even when the VPN connection fails. VeePN Kill Switch interrupts your VPN connection to prevent your sensitive data from being exposed.
• Antivirus and Breach Alert. Activate the VeePN’s Security Bundle in your web account to gain ultimate protection online. Receive prompt security alerts about data threats through Breach Alert feature and an Antivirus for malware detection. 
• Compatibility with all major devices. VeePN supports Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS platforms and extends to gaming consoles, smart TVs, Wi-Fi routers. Each VeePN subscription allows users to connect 10 devices at once.

Explore of the metaverse safely while maintaining secure data privacy through VeePN. The 30-day money-back guarantee of VeePN is available now with the option to experience premium features through a free trial.

Written by VeePN Research Lab VeePN Research Lab is dedicated to provide you latest posts about internet security and privacy.

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