Second Life

Second Life is the name of a MMORPG based in San Fransisco. Their is no ultimate goal to the game nor are there any levels, but users play to their own goals, or even just to socialize. Avatars are created upon registration and users are then able to explore virtual worlds, interact with other users and buy or create items. The game has its own currency 'Linden dollars' with a rate of about L$500 to £1, the virtual money can be exchanged for real currency which has created oppertunities for entrepreneurs to make money and even a living from the game. Second Life is often used by major companies to advertise products and even as a vehicle for selling them.


Security
On september 6th Robert Linden confirmed that the Second Life database was hacked and some of their unencrypted customer information, including account names, real life names and contact information, was stolen, however, the hack did not include the theft of any unencrypted credit card information.

Ethics
It could be said that Second Life is the ultimate reinforcement of cosmetic perfection. In an age where people are constantly striving to improve their physical appearance - this software literally allows users to take on another body and customise it to their liking in a few clicks, socialising with this avatar in an environment where their real appearance is hidden away.