Roblox gaming platform tightens user age controls

Roblox just announced it will expand its age estimation technology globally and partner with the International Association for Rated Adults (IARC) to adopt a standard rating system for in-game experiences.

Roblox has over 110 million daily players

Launched in 2006, Roblox now has more than 110 million daily active users and more than 380 million monthly users. Notably, according to Backlinko statistics, more than half are children and teenagers under 16 years old. On this platform, players can create games, chat, and even buy and sell virtual items with Robux.

It is this combination of entertainment and social networking that makes Roblox a "double-edged sword" as it both encourages creativity and potentially exposes children to violence, profanity, fraud, and even online predatory behavior. In fact, Roblox is facing several lawsuits in the US related to child safety, including a lawsuit from the state of Louisiana alleging the platform does not do enough to protect young users.

Launched in 2006, Roblox now has more than 110 million daily active users.

PHOTO: GAMEREFINERY SCREENSHOT

Roblox's New Move

In a September 3 announcement, Roblox said it would roll out age estimation technology to all users using its text and voice chat tools. The system uses AI (artificial intelligence) to analyze selfie videos and estimate age. If it fails to verify the age, the platform will ask for identification or parental consent.

In parallel, Roblox implemented an international standard content rating system, similar to traditional movies or video games. Players in the US will see the ESRB label, in Europe PEGI, in Korea GRAC, and in Germany USK. This standardization helps parents more clearly identify the appropriateness of each game, instead of being vague as before.

The key role of parents

While Roblox has added many layers of protection, technology is just the first step. Parents are the key layer of control when it comes to keeping kids safe. Many security features are not enabled by default, so parents need to be proactive in setting them up. Parents can set playtime limits, control Robux spending, and monitor friends lists and chat groups.

More importantly, parents need to talk directly to their children about online risks, instead of relying solely on technology lock buttons. "Technology can provide an initial layer of protection, but digital education and parental support are the foundation for truly safe children," said an international cyber safety expert.

Parents are the key layer of control in keeping children safe from online risks.

PHOTO: WIRED SCREENSHOT

Roblox is not the only platform adopting this technology. Previously, YouTube and TikTok have implemented age verification and parental control tools to comply with online safety laws in many countries. Netflix also has a Kids Profile mode with clear age limits. What makes Roblox different is that it is highly social, which makes the risks greater. Therefore, the control measures need to be closely combined between AI, law and parents.

Roblox's changes are a significant step forward, showing that the gaming industry is taking child safety seriously. But creating a truly safe "virtual playground" requires parents to take the lead. Technology is just a tool, and the responsibility and initiative rests with parents.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nen-tang-game-roblox-siet-chat-kiem-soat-do-tuoi-nguoi-dung-18525090418592137.htm