Roblox to implement age verification system to use platform's chat features

Roblox Corporation, a popular gaming platform, has announced the rollout of an age verification system aimed at improving safety for its younger users. This new feature, set to launch in early December, will restrict users' chat capabilities based on their age, allowing them to communicate only with others within similar age brackets. To confirm their age, users can utilize facial recognition technology developed by Roblox or provide government-issued identification. This initiative comes in response to criticism and legal challenges regarding the platform's safety measures, particularly after a lawsuit filed by Louisiana in August 2025 accused Roblox of inadequate protections against adult predators targeting child users. Matt Kaufman, Roblox's Chief Safety Officer, emphasized the importance of creating a secure environment for all users. He urged other companies in the industry to adopt comparable standards. Initially, the age verification feature will be implemented in select markets, including Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands, before expanding globally in early January. Once users complete the verification process, they will be categorized into specific age groups: under nine, nine to twelve, thirteen to fifteen, sixteen to seventeen, eighteen to twenty, and over twenty-one. Notably, users under the age of nine will have their chat capabilities automatically disabled unless parental consent is provided following an age check. Additionally, individuals identified as under thirteen will have certain personal data, such as email and phone number, removed from their Roblox account. Users will be prompted within the app to verify their age, requiring access to their device's camera. They will then follow a series of on-screen instructions to ensure accurate verification. For those opting to use identification documents, options include a driver's license, passport, or residency card. If users believe their age has been incorrectly estimated as under thirteen, they will have 48 hours to initiate an age verification process. The steps to verify age include logging into their account, navigating to Settings, selecting the Account Info tab, and following the prompts for age verification. With this initiative, Roblox aims to foster a safer online environment for children, reinforcing their commitment to user safety and responsible gaming.