Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Fall 2008
Publication Source
Vanderbilt Journal of Technology and Entertainment Law
Abstract
This article analyzes activity in virtual worlds that would constitute crime if they were committed in the real world. It reviews the evolution of virtual worlds like Second Life and notes research which indicates that more and more of our lives will move into this realm. The article then analyzes the criminalization of virtual conduct that inflicts “harm” in the real world and virtual conduct that only inflicts “harm” in the virtual world. It explains that the first category qualifies as cybercrime and can be prosecuted under existing law. Finally, it analyzes the necessity and propriety of criminalizing the second category of conduct, both now and in the future.
Inclusive pages
1-97
ISBN/ISSN
1942-678X
Document Version
Published Version
Copyright
Copyright © 2008, Vanderbilt Journal of Technology and Entertainment Law
Publisher
Vanderbilt Journal of Technology and Entertainment Law
Volume
11
Issue
1
Place of Publication
Nashville, TN
Peer Reviewed
yes
eCommons Citation
Brenner, Susan W., "Fantasy Crime: The Role of Criminal Law in Virtual Worlds" (2008). School of Law Faculty Publications. 111.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/law_fac_pub/111
Comments
Document is made available for download with the permission of the Vanderbilt Journal of Entertainment & Technology Law. Permission documentation is on file. Link to the article on publisher's website.
Subscriptions for the Vanderbilt Journal of Technology and Entertainment Law may be purchased here.