Trust and Safety in Social VR: Current Industry Practices

This chapter reviews the spectrum of moderation techniques currently deployed across social VR platforms to tackle user conduct and content issues, distinguishing between reactive and proactive strategies. It evaluates common reactive safety features like in-app reporting, vote kicking, blocking and user monitoring, noting their limitations and the burden they place on victims. The chapter also explores proactive measures, including personal boundaries, voice controls and community norms, aimed at preventing harassment and abuse. It underscores the challenges of balancing user safety with engagement and the necessity for a multifaceted approach that combines both reactive and proactive elements to foster pro-social behaviour and ensure a safe VR environment.