An independent developer working on the Roblox platform has warned that the available safety measures do not provide adequate protection for children, emphasizing the need for parents to constantly monitor their children on the platform. This warning came in an exclusive interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, where the developer, who requested anonymity, stated that parents should be extremely cautious, and if they cannot supervise their children around the clock, it is better for them not to play on Roblox.
Roblox is considered one of the most popular gaming platforms in the UK among children aged 8 to 12. In 2024, the average number of global players on the platform exceeded 80 million daily, with about 40% of them under the age of 13. A spokesperson for Roblox stated that "safety is a top priority," confirming that the platform has advanced measures in place to protect users.
Details of the Warning
In his conversation with the BBC, the independent developer, known as Sam, criticized the current measures, pointing out that the age verification measures implemented in January 2026 are insufficient. He explained that he has witnessed numerous instances of children being lured by strangers, which contradicts the rules set by Roblox. He also noted the existence of games that include violent and inappropriate content, such as games that simulate tragic events like the Sandy Hook and Columbine incidents.
Sam, who also works with a nonprofit organization focused on online child safety, stated that he believes Roblox needs significant improvements in its security system. He added that only 30% of the reports submitted regarding harmful content are accepted, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the current system.
Background & Context
Founded in 2006, Roblox quickly became one of the largest gaming platforms in the world, allowing users to create their own games or play games created by others. As the number of players has increased, so have concerns about child safety on the platform. In recent years, many questions have been raised about how to protect children from harmful content, prompting some countries like Russia and Turkey to completely ban the platform.
In March 2025, Roblox's CEO, Dave Baszucki, confirmed that the company is taking significant steps to ensure children's safety, but he added that parents must use their own judgment. He indicated that parents should be cautious if they do not feel comfortable with their children using the platform.
Impact & Consequences
Reports indicate that Roblox is not the only platform facing challenges in child safety, as many other gaming platforms are subjected to the same criticisms. With increasing concerns about child safety online, governments may move towards imposing further restrictions on the use of these platforms. In the UK, the government is consulting on the possibility of banning children from using social media, which could impact platforms like Roblox.
There are also growing calls from child rights activists to implement stricter measures to protect children from harmful content, which could lead to changes in how these platforms operate in the future.
Regional Significance
In the Arab world, the use of gaming platforms among children has increased, raising similar concerns about their safety. Parents in Arab countries need to be aware of the potential risks their children may face on these platforms and take steps to monitor them while playing. There is also an urgent need to develop national policies to protect children from harmful online content.
In conclusion, this issue highlights the importance of raising awareness about online child safety and activating the role of parents and the community in protecting children from potential risks.