With technological advances, the line between the real and the virtual is becoming increasingly blurred, and the metaverse is evolving into a futuristic reality that is already present. This parallel virtual world offers many opportunities and challenges and could impact our society and economy.

Most people have heard of the Metaverse, but how many of people can understand it? To find some answers to this "new world," the Portuguese Safer Internet Centre decided that this year's Safer Internet Day focuses on the topic of the metaverse and offered the seminar "Safer Internet: Metaverse vs. Reality" seminar as the main event.

The meeting was held in the Aula Magna of the University of the Azores between 9:00 and 12:30. Experts from different fields, both local and foreign, presented this technological wave and talked about its risks and challenges.

In addition to the seminar, several activities took place in Ponta Delgada: the "Safe Internet Workshops", which sensitised students to a healthier, safer, and more aware use of the Internet and social networks. This dynamic was aimed at students from 9th to 12th grade, including students from vocational training programmes. 

Find out more

Find out more about the work of the Portuguese Safer Internet Centre, including its awareness raising, helpline, hotline and youth participation services – or find similar information for Safer Internet Centres throughout Europe.

Find out more about the annual global celebration of Safer Internet Day at www.saferinternetday.org.