Roblox is implementing new measures to limit access for users under 13 in response to recent reports alleging the platform has facilitated child abuse.
Beginning November 18th, children under 13 will no longer be able to access experiences with specific interactive features, such as “social hangouts” focused on text or voice communication and “free-form 2D user creation” where players can draw on virtual chalkboards or whiteboards.
Further, as of December 3rd, users under 13 will be blocked from playing or discovering unrated experiences. Game creators who want their content accessible to this age group must complete a questionnaire and meet Roblox’s All Ages or 9+ rating standards. Enforcement of these guidelines is expected to begin next year.
These changes come amid increasing scrutiny of Roblox’s safety practices, highlighted by a recent Bloomberg report titled “Roblox’s Pedophile Problem.” In October, Roblox announced additional protections for pre-teen users, including a new account type allowing parents greater control over their children’s activities on the platform.
Roblox spokesperson Juliet Chaitin-Lefcourt emphasized the company’s commitment to safety, stating, “We’re constantly strengthening our safety systems and policies — we shipped over 30 improvements this year and we have more to come.”
