September 9, 2025
We stand by our research team’s excellent work and are dismayed by these mischaracterizations of the team’s efforts.
Meta spokeswoman Dani Lever in response to allegations that Meta actively hid research and concerns about child safety regarding its virtual reality headsets and platform “Horizon Worlds.”
Why It Matters: Two current and two former Meta employees submitted documents to Congress alleging the company suppressed research regarding child safety related to its virtual reality (VR) headsets and games.
- Although the packaging states the devices are for ages 13 and older, the employees say Meta knew kids under 13 were using the headsets and accessing “Horizon Worlds” – where some were inappropriately contacted or groomed by adults. Today’s Senate hearing examines these claims.
- “Horizon World’s” is Meta’s main virtual reality social platform – a 3D social network – where users interact with avatars, play games, and join virtual events.
- Meta has sold roughly 20 million Quest headsets worldwide (mostly in the U.S.) as of 2023, making it the most widely used VR device.
Learn More:
- Meta suppressed research on child safety, employees say (Washington Post Gift Link)
Image Credit: Mariia Shalabaieva | Unsplash
by Karly Code, based in Kentucky
