Impact of Deepfake technology and virtual identity Theft in the Metaverse on child protection in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: Deepfakes and virtual identity theft moving fast have caused serious risks to children in the metaverse and create very realistic content on the internet, which is often used to distress or harass minors. Many children involved in virtual gaming are especially at risk of being victims of identity-based cybercrimes. The study focuses on how important these dangers are and assesses if the current laws and policies of the country are enough to protect children. Method: The research is based on the qualitative approach, content analysis of cybercrime reports, legislation, policies, and expert perspectives of law enforcement officials and digital security experts. Digital identity exploitation is studied, and its responses by institutions are explored, along with assessing the effectiveness of current laws and regulations regarding child safety online in Sri Lanka. Results: With findings of deepfake-related cybercrimes, children playing games are the main targets, and there are huge gaps in cybersecurity and legal enforcement measures. The statistical data showcases cybercrime incidents in Sri Lanka increased from 2020 to 2021 by 6.8% due to the rise in identity theft and misuse of social media. At the same time, there is also a surge in privacy violations, scams, and phishing attacks, which shows the high risks of virtual identity theft and digital pillaging. Awareness has never been more reasoned, but the existing legal framework is inadequate; there are none of the necessary enforcement mechanisms or comprehensive digital safety policies . Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the requirement to enhance the digital safety regulations and Al governance policies in Sri Lanka and recommend strengthening the legal frameworks, law enforcement, and digital literacy programs. The development of deepfake and virtual identity theft in the metaverse can be mitigated only through a multi-stakeholder approach involving policymakers, tech companies, and civil society.