Virtual Reality and Privacy

While VR technology offers us new ways to entertain, learn, and communicate, it also raises questions about privacy and user data collection. In this blog, we'll discuss how VR data is collected, stored, and used, and what this means for user privacy

When you use a VR system, several types of data can be collected from you. This can include:

• Data about the VR equipment you use, such as the type and configuration of the headset, the controllers, and other accessories
• Data about how you use the VR system, such as the apps you use, the games you play, and the interactions you have with other users
• Data about your physical location and movements, which are captured by sensors on the VR equipment
• Personal data such as your name, email address, and other identifiable information

This data can be collected to improve and personalize the VR experience, but also to be used for other purposes such as marketing and ad customization. In some cases, this data can also be sold to third parties

It's important to know that many VR companies have their own privacy policies that describe how they collect and use user data. This policy typically needs to be accepted before a user can access the VR application or service. It's advisable to read these policies before you agree to the terms to fully understand what data is being collected and what it's used for. The storage of this data can vary per VR company. Some companies store the data on their own servers, while others store this data on third-party servers. In some cases, data can also be stored on servers outside the EU, which can lead to various privacy and security issues

To protect user privacy, VR companies must adhere to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the EU. This means that companies need the user's consent before they collect personal data, and they must inform the user about how this data is used and stored. Companies also need to implement adequate security measures to protect user data from unauthorized access and theft

It's important to know that many VR companies have their own privacy policies that describe how they collect and use user data. This policy typically needs to be accepted before a user can access the VR application or service. It's advisable to read these policies before you agree to the terms to fully understand what data is being collected and what it's used for. The storage of this data can vary per VR company. Some companies store the data on their own servers, while others store this data on third-party servers. In some cases, data can also be stored on servers outside the EU, which can lead to various privacy and security issues

To protect user privacy, VR companies must adhere to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the EU. This means that companies need the user's consent before they collect personal data, and they must inform the user about how this data is used and stored. Companies also need to implement adequate security measures to protect user data from unauthorized access and theft

Meta, Pico, and HTC VIVE are all manufacturers of VR hardware and software and each have their own privacy policies. These are currently the most popular brands when it comes to virtual reality use in schools, universities, and government institutions

Meta collects data from Oculus account users, including name, email address, physical address, payment details, IP address, and device information, to provide and improve Oculus services, provide customer service, and comply with legal obligations. Meta may share this data with third parties and use it for marketing purposes. Meta takes measures to protect the data and Oculus account users have certain rights regarding their data. If Meta is sold or merges with another company, the data of Oculus account users may be transferred. The privacy statement for Oculus account users is governed by the laws of the state of California and is subject to arbitration. (Source: Meta)

Pico collects personal information from users, such as name, email address, address, and payment details, and information about the use of Pico services for the provision, management, and improvement of the services and for marketing purposes. Pico shares user's personal information with third parties and may share data to comply with legal obligations or prevent fraud. Pico takes measures to protect user's personal information and users have certain rights regarding their personal information. Pico may transfer user's personal information to other countries where Pico operates. Pico uses cookies and similar technologies to improve the user experience. Pico's privacy statement is governed by the laws of the state of California and is subject to arbitration. (Source: Pico)

HTC collects personal information, such as name, address, email address, phone number, location data, device data, and usage data, when you use the products or services or contact them. They use this information to provide products and services, personalize your experience, keep you informed about updates and offers, and to comply with legal obligations. HTC may share the information with third parties, retains it for as long as necessary, and protects it from unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. HTC uses cookies and similar technologies to collect information about the use of their website and services. (Source: HTC)

All three privacy policies of Meta, Pico, and HTC VIVE contain similar points, such as the collection of personal data, the use of data for marketing purposes, data protection, user rights, and the use of cookies

However, there are some differences. For instance, Meta operates globally and can transfer personal information to countries outside the EU, while Pico and HTC VIVE restrict themselves to the countries they operate in. Also, Meta's privacy policy is governed by California law, while HTC VIVE follows the laws of Washington

In terms of handling privacy, Meta and Pico appear to be similar, with both companies sharing personal information with third parties and potentially transferring the data to other countries. HTC VIVE, however, seems to place more emphasis on protecting personal information and limits the sharing of data with third parties.