A interface da responsabilidade civil no metaverso

: desafios e perspetivas para a responsabilização no novo mundo virtual

Abstract

This thesis explores the legal challenges of civil liability within the metaverse, an emerging immersive digital environment that disrupts conventional legal frameworks. The increasing integration of virtual realities and artificial intelligence necessitates a reassessment of fundamental liability principles, particularly fault, damage, and causation. The research unfolds in two main areas. The first examines user liability, considering whether avatars should be legally classified as products, things, virtual goods, or extensions of legal personality. It further explores the applicability of existing legal norms to wrongful acts committed in immersive environments and whether accountability can be effectively assigned to users for actions performed through their avatars. The second focus lies on the liability of platforms that facilitate immersive experiences in the metaverse. It scrutinizes their role as digital service providers and the extent of their liability for third-party actions, particularly in light of the European Union’s Digital Services Act.

Date of Award	16 Jul 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Nuno Sousa e Silva (Supervisor)