The metaverse is a brand-new digital world VR world that has taken over the Internet. It’s a computer-generated collaborative environment in which users can explore and interact with digital avatars of other real people. In that it allows users to take on alternate personas, meet new friends, and even create their own characters, the metaverse (also known as virtual reality, the virtual universe, or cyber world) is similar to games like Second Life and other online role-playing environments.

Indeed, there are so many similarities between these various digital worlds VR that some have dubbed them “copycat VR” experiences. While they may share some features, each digital world VR has its own set of rules and regulations governing what users can (and cannot) do once they log in. The following are things you cannot do in the metaverse.

You Cannot Touch Anyone Without Their Permission

The first rule of the metaverse is that you must not touch another avatar without their permission. This fundamental rule is critical because it is the only way to keep someone from physically assaulting another user and breaking the law in the digital world VR. When many new users first enter the metaverse, their first thought is, “How do I touch things?” The answer is simple: you just have to want it. To pick up an object or touch someone, you must “try” to do so—and only if the other person agrees to be handled will your avatar’s hand move.

You Are Not Permitted to Use Violence Against Anyone

Any form of violence is strictly prohibited in the digital world VR. While it may appear obvious, you cannot use guns, blasters, grenades, or even magical spells against other avatars. In the metaverse, the only way to defend yourself is to flee and/or log out of the virtual environment. The only exception to this rule is if you’re playing a combat-based game. In this case, you will be given a set of rules as well as a warning before the game begins that you are not permitted to engage in any real-world violence.

You Cannot Have Another Avatar

One of the biggest no-nos in the metaverse owns another avatar. In fact, it is such a big deal that many virtual worlds have outright prohibited it. This rule exists because some users will attempt to trick other avatars into “selling” their avatars to them. Once the selling avatar signs over ownership of their character, getting it back are complicated. However, there are a few notable exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are playing a role-playing game, you may be given the option to purchase a new avatar. This is usually accomplished with a set of in-game credits earned by completing quests or spending real money. If you do decide to purchase another avatar, make sure the seller is reputable and that you follow all of the game’s rules.

You Cannot Break the Law or Any of the Metaverse’s Rules

To stay safe, most digital worlds VR have a set of rules that users must follow. If a user violates a rule, they are usually banned from the game, either temporarily or permanently. Most virtual worlds prohibit users from exchanging real-life information with other users and using abusive language. The majority of the rules are fairly straightforward, such as “don’t harass other avatars,” “don’t exchange real-life information,” and “don’t advertise your products or services.”

You Are Not Permitted to Use Words That Are Considered Racist or Sexist

Many digital worlds VR have a strict “no hate speech” policy and will permanently ban users who use racist, sexist, or discriminatory words. Some virtual worlds also prohibit the use of words that are not considered “family friendly.” This means that if you want to play in a virtual world with younger children, you should avoid saying anything that would be considered impolite in polite company.

You Are Not Permitted to Promote Any Product or Service That May Be Deemed Harmful to Users

Many digital worlds VR have strict rules regarding which products and services can be featured in the game. They won’t let you advertise products that they believe are harmful to users, which includes everything from tobacco to weapons and drugs. Some virtual worlds only allow you to feature products and services that their moderators have approved. Others will let you feature products and services if the advertisers pay a fee to the virtual world. Virtual worlds that do not allow any product or service advertising usually have a set of rules posted on their website that specify what you are not permitted to promote. You may be permanently banned from the game if you violate these rules.

Nudity Cannot Be Displayed in Any Way (Including Art)

While some virtual worlds allow you to feature nudity, the majority do not allow any form of nudity in the game. The main reason for this rule is that some people use the digital worlds VR to experiment with their sexuality, and nudity can quickly undermine any sense of privacy that users have. Children and teenagers are among the many people who use virtual worlds. Nudity-themed virtual worlds typically require you to be 18 or older. They usually only allow art nudity (such as sculptures, paintings, and drawings) and require all models to be at least 18 years old.

You Will Only See Advertisements for Products or Services That Are Safe for Users

digital worlds VR make money by selling advertisements to businesses looking to sell their products and services to users. Most virtual worlds strictly enforce the rule that companies can only advertise products and services that are safe for users. Keep in mind that these aren’t actually ads. They’re more like virtual billboards that you walk past. You do not click on them or respond in any way to them. You simply walk past them and continue playing. If the virtual world ever allows companies to start clicking on their ads and targeting users, you should avoid clicking on anything. This is due to the fact that clicking on advertisements in the virtual world can be extremely dangerous. Some malicious software (malware) creators have created fake ads that look like real ads but infect your computer with viruses, spyware, and other malicious software when you click on them. Most importantly, you will be unable to play with your friends unless they are also connected to the same server.