Quantum Computing Generative AI & LLMs Drones 6G Networks Satellite Comms Group Messaging Platforms Crypto- currency IoT Devices Metaverse 5G Networks Social Media Incitement 17 Metaverse The metaverse is broadly defined as a single, interconnected virtual world offering users persistent and immersive spaces to work, learn and play. The very concept of what the metaverse will be is still evolving, however many technologies and platforms already in use today represent the beginnings of the metaverse. Virtual reality headsets, spatial computing, sensors and haptics can create immersive, virtual realities. Over half a billion users today are already active on gaming platforms (such as Roblox and Fortnite) and blockchain-based virtual worlds (such as Decentraland and Sandbox) where players interact in the form of avatars and can take part in a larger virtual world. Although the metaverse is in early stages, cybercriminals are already finding various methods to defraud victims, including phishing, social engineering, fake NFTs, and more. There have been numerous cases documented of social engineering scams which impersonated legitimate metaverse platforms, creators, or influencers, and tricked users into clicking on malicious links, downloading malware, purchasing fake assets or revealing sensitive information such as passwords, private keys, or wallet addresses. Other scams include selling counterfeit or stolen NFTs, or schemes where the developers or promoters of a metaverse project suddenly disappear with the funds raised from investors or users, leaving them with worthless tokens or assets. Impact: DIGITAL AGE Metaverse Responsible AI Human-Machine Collaboration Video Analytics