Roblox is rolling out new parental controls to further protect kids on the platform. With the new changes, parents can now block their kids from communicating with specific friends as well as playing specific games.
Starting today, parents and caregivers who identify themselves with an ID or credit card will have access to three new tools:
- The friend management tool allows parents to block anyone from their child's friend list. This means that the child will not be able to exchange direct messages with the blocked account.
- The second tool allows parents to control and change the content maturity level for their child's account, which determines access to specific games.
- Finally, parents will be able to report individuals believed to be violating Roblox policies.
See also: Roblox: New safety features for kids (all changes)
Under the Internet Safety Act, which came into effect this year, tech companies must address harmful content or face huge fines.
Roblox has been accused many times of failing to adequately protect children. There have been reports of bullying and grooming, while there are fears that children are being exposed to inappropriate and harmful content.
Roblox's head of security, Matt Kaufman, said that security is a priority for the company.
The American company is one of the largest gaming platforms. In 2024, the site had an average of more than 80 million players per day, and about 40% of them were under 13 years old.
See also: Roblox: New safety features for kids (all changes)
Andy Burrows, CEO of the Molly Rose, said he welcomed the safety improvements but that "Roblox still needs to address significant issues with harmful and age-inappropriate content."
Regardless of these changes, parents should be vigilant and monitor their child's online activities. It is important to have open and honest discussions with children about the potential dangers of online gaming and teach them how to spot and report inappropriate behavior.
See also: Roblox: Is it doing enough to tackle pedophiles on the platform?
The future of online gaming security
The rise in popularity of online games has created a need for more effective security measures. Game developers should work to improve the security features of their platforms and collaborate with organizations dedicated to protecting children from pedophiles.
Source: www.theguardian.com
