Tighter messaging controls for under-13 players on Roblox

New safety features on Roblox include tighter messaging rules and parental oversight for players under 13.

Roblox now bans under-13 users from messaging outside games while adding new parental controls for account management and content restrictions.

Roblox has announced new measures to protect users under 13, permanently removing their ability to send messages outside of games. In-game messaging will remain available, but only with parental consent. Parents can now remotely manage accounts, oversee friend lists, set spending controls, and enforce screen time limits.

The gaming platform, which boasts 89 million users, has faced scrutiny over claims of child abuse on its service. In August, Turkish authorities blocked Roblox, citing concerns over user-generated content. A lawsuit filed in 2022 accused the company of facilitating exploitation, including sexual and financial abuse of a young girl in California.

New rules also limit communication for younger players, allowing under-13 users to receive public broadcast messages only within specific games. Roblox will implement updated content descriptors such as ‘Minimal’ and ‘Restricted’ to classify games, restricting access for users under nine to appropriate experiences.

Access to restricted content will now require users to be at least 17 years old and verify their age. These changes aim to enhance child safety amid growing concerns and highlight Roblox’s efforts to address ongoing challenges in its community.