Virtual reality risks for children in the metaverse : an examination through criminological perspectivesMartellozzo, ElenaBradbury, PaulaFarr, RubyDavidson, Julia C.EnglishBookThis title explores online harms experienced by children in the metaverse and considers the implications through a criminological lens. Drawing on research from the VIRRAC project, funded by REPHRAIN, it includes insights from industry experts, practitioners, and young people. The book examines how criminological theories help us understand children's experiences online, while highlighting gaps in knowledge, resources, and training among professionals responsible for safeguarding against online harms, particularly child sexual exploitation and abuse in metaverse spaces. It explores complexities faced by those trying to detect, prevent, and respond to online harms in immersive environments, revealing the challenges of professional practice in this field.2026Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2026.Online sexual predatorsChild abuse—Great Britain—PreventionInternet and childrenVirtual reality—Safety regulations—Great BritainMetaverse—Moral and ethical aspectsMetaverse—Law and legislation—Great BritainVirtual Reality Risks Against Children (VIRRAC)REPHRAIN (National Research Centre on Privacy, Harm Reduction and Adversarial Influence Online)Book9781009620161