An independent game developer for Roblox believes child safety measures on the platform, including age verification checks, do not go far enough. Roblox is the most popular gaming platform in the UK among children aged eight to twelve.
In an exclusive interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, the unnamed developer stressed that parents should monitor their children on the platform '24/7,' and suggested that if constant supervision isn't feasible, children should refrain from playing Roblox.
A Roblox spokesperson affirmed that safety is a top priority and that the platform features advanced safeguards and filters to guard against harmful content and interactions.
In 2024, Roblox had an average of 80 million global players daily, with approximately 40% under 13 years old. The developer, who preferred to go by the name 'Sam,' stated that the reality of safety on the platform starkly contrasts with statements made by Roblox's chief safety officer, Matt Kaufman.
During the interview, Kaufman outlined multiple safety measures, including mandatory age verification for UK users rolled out in January 2026. Sam, an independent developer and safety monitor, alleged he has witnessed firsthand unsafe practices on Roblox, stating that reports of harmful behavior rarely receive prompt action.
Harmful or Violent Content
Roblox allows users to create and play games in an open-world format, where interaction is common. However, critics assert the platform falls short in adequately protecting young players. Concerns have been raised about the ease with which individuals may engage inappropriate behaviors on the platform.
Sam reported alarming instances of players being lured into dangerous dialogues with strangers, noting that some games revolve around violent or sensitive real-world events. He criticized Roblox's response system, claiming a substantial portion of reports remain unaddressed.
He advised parents to act as vigilant overseers while their children engage with Roblox, saying, 'Children need to be monitored 24/7. If that's not possible, then they shouldn't be playing Roblox.'
Roblox maintains it proactively monitors user behavior, and if abnormal patterns arise, it prompts users to undergo age checks again. The platform has experienced backlash, even facing bans in countries like Russia and Turkey over child safety concerns, as international debates persist regarding the oversight of children on social media and gaming platforms.
