Italian prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation into a disturbing case of digital sexual violence that has shocked the nation. A 12-year-old girl's avatar was brutally assaulted by multiple male characters in a Facebook-owned metaverse group, in what authorities are treating as a virtual gang rape.
The Horrific Virtual Assault
The incident occurred within a virtual reality environment accessible through the social media giant's platform. According to investigators, the young girl's digital representation was surrounded and violently attacked by several male avatars controlled by adult users.
"What happened to this child in the metaverse constitutes psychological violence equivalent to physical rape," stated a spokesperson for Milan prosecutors. "The trauma experienced is real and profound."
Parental Discovery and Outrage
The assault came to light when the victim's parents noticed their daughter's unusually withdrawn behaviour and emotional distress. Upon investigation, they discovered the horrific digital attack that had taken place in what they believed was a safe online space.
"We trusted that platforms would protect our children," the girl's father told Italian media. "Instead, she was subjected to unimaginable violence in a space that should have been secure."
National Response and Legal Challenges
The case has triggered widespread outrage across Italy, with politicians and child protection agencies demanding immediate action. Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani condemned the attack, stating: "We cannot allow digital spaces to become lawless territories where children are exposed to horrific violence."
Legal experts are now grappling with unprecedented challenges in applying existing legislation to virtual crimes. While Italian law provides for up to 14 years imprisonment for gang rape, applying these statutes to digital environments presents complex jurisdictional and definitional issues.
Meta's Response and Platform Responsibility
Facebook's parent company Meta faces increasing pressure over safety measures in its virtual reality platforms. The company has stated it is "cooperating fully with authorities" and emphasised its "zero-tolerance policy for this type of behaviour."
However, child protection advocates argue that technology companies must implement more robust age verification systems and proactive monitoring to prevent such atrocities.
Growing Concerns About Virtual Safety
This case highlights escalating concerns about the safety of immersive digital environments, particularly for minors. As metaverse technologies become increasingly sophisticated, the potential for psychological trauma from virtual experiences grows correspondingly.
Child safety organisations are calling for:
- Mandatory age verification systems
- Enhanced parental controls
- Real-time monitoring of virtual interactions
- Clearer reporting mechanisms for digital assaults
- International cooperation on virtual crime legislation
The investigation continues as authorities work to identify the individuals behind the avatars involved in this disturbing case of digital violence.
