Roblox Enhances Age Checks and Introduces Age-Based Chats for Younger Users

Roblox is enhancing its safety protocols by implementing stricter age verification measures and introducing age-based chat functionalities. This development is aimed at protecting its younger user base from potential online hazards.

Age Verification System Update

The gaming platform recently announced improvements to its age-check system for users wishing to privately message other players. These enhancements come amid increasing scrutiny surrounding child safety in online gaming environments, alongside various legal challenges faced by the company.

Video Selfie Age Estimation

In July, Roblox introduced a new age estimation tool in collaboration with Persona. This feature requires users to submit a video selfie to facilitate accurate age assessments. Following the estimation process, these videos are deleted to ensure user privacy.

Parental Controls and Restrictions

• Users under 13 need parental permission to chat outside games.
• Roblox monitors all private chat conversations but does not encrypt them.

Accuracy of Age Estimates

Matt Kaufman, Roblox’s chief safety officer, assures that the system accurately evaluates users’ ages between five and 25 years, typically within a one to two-year margin. Users who disagree with the initial estimate can present identification or seek parental approval for adjustments.

Age Group Assignments

Once age verification is complete, users will be categorized into specific age groups:

• Under 9
• 9 to 12
• 13 to 15
• 16 to 17
• 18 to 20
• Over 21

This categorization allows users to interact only with others in their age group or nearby age ranges.

Timeline for Implementation

Roblox plans to enforce these age checks in Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands by the first week of December. The rest of the world will see these measures roll out in early January.

Industry-Wide Initiatives

As online safety becomes a priority, more tech companies are adopting verification systems. For example, Google is testing an AI-based age-verification system for YouTube, while Instagram is implementing AI tools to check the ages of its users.

These advancements in age verification and user safety highlight Roblox’s commitment to protecting its younger demographic in an increasingly regulated online landscape.