In a bid to make the site safer for children, Roblox is making major changes. The company announced new restrictions that will kick in on November 18, 2024. The company identified ‘Social Hangouts’ and ‘Free text 2D user creation’ spaces as ‘high-risk’ experiences. Thus, the new Roblox updates will block access to these experience for young users.
The ban will prevent youth from interacting with people over text or voice communications via social hangouts. ‘Freetext 2D user creation’ experiences like drawing on a piece of chalkboard or on a whiteboard will similarly be off-limits. These are areas where inappropriate interactions may occur according to Roblox.
On a separate note, another new policy will prohibit kids under 13 from searching for, playing, or discovering unrated experiences.
Starting December 3, 2024, this will make sure any experience offered to younger players has been reviewed for safety. So, if developers are happy to let their experiences be playable by underage players, they have to follow the guidelines set by Roblox. The developers will do so by answering a questionnaire ensuring that their game is rated for all ages or 9+.
After some alarming reports by Bloomberg on the "Roblox's Pedophile Problem", the platform was accused of lacking the ability to protect its young users from inappropriateness and malicious relationships.
In response to such reports, Roblox made new rules for minor users. The company also introduced a feature that allows parents the control of their children’s account.
A Roblox spokesperson stated, "We’re constantly strengthening our safety systems and policies, we shipped over 30 improvements this year and we have more to come." The company emphasizes that it is committed to innovation in safety, continuously working to enhance its platform to protect users.”
These measures announced by Roblox are to notify the community of developers of the changing guidelines and how to follow them. The restrictions will ensure that the online space remains safer for people of all ages.
In a recent news, the Australian government has unveiled what it labelled as "world-leading" social media ban for anyone under 16. This ban will cover social media platforms, like Instagram and TikTok, Facebook and X, and potentially YouTube. Australia is also developing an age-verification system using biometrics, and government ID, to enforce the ban. Read more
Thus, the stricter guidelines of Roblox for preventing child abuse are in line with shifting government stance on social media platforms globally.