The metaverse and AI are perpetuating new forms of exploitation reminiscent of historical injustices. Digital economies often rely on marginalized workers in low-wage regions, such as content moderators, who face psychological trauma and poor working conditions. Practices like "gold farming" and "play-to-earn" gaming pretense economic empowerment while predominantly benefiting wealthier players. Additionally, the production of hardware for the metaverse involves exploitative labor in resource-rich regions like the DRC. As demand for critical minerals rises, regulatory bodies are under pressure to enforce ethical labor standards amidst these evolving challenges.