The Popular Game Raising Safety Questions
Parents have always been concerned about the games that their children play online. However, you can’t watch your children all hours of the day, and so it’s important to be able to warn children of what they should avoid, or even put blocks on certain games. Roblox is one of the most popular games among children.
Controversial Content Concerns
The game that many parents have been warned about, is also the one that is the most popular with children; Roblox. The game is known for questionable content that is already offered on the platform, such as the inclusion of violent and sexual scenarios available to be viewed by all users. Parents were also concerned about the new content that has been added as Roblox created a section of the game only for those who are 17 and over.
Age Verification Under Scrutiny
In order to access the 17+ rated content in Roblox, users need to be age verified, however, this process has come under fire in the past, as children often faked parental permission in order to play. While the system requires users to upload a copy of government-approved ID, only an AI checks this information. Because a human isn’t involved in this process, it would be easy for a child to upload and enter an older person’s ID and information.
Largely Targeted at Children
The change was seen as controversial as statistics show that 56% of users are under the recommended age of 13, and 67% of users are under 16. Just 14% of users are 25+, showing how the game largely targets children. It should be noted that this data is based on the age that users claim they are, so the average age is likely lower than this in reality.
Potential for Online Predators
Due to the large number of children using the platform, some people have reported that adults have been using the site to talk to and meet minors. One mother called Roblox a "pedophile’s playground" after a user tried to get her five-year-old to give them their address and stand outside the house.
Controversial Decision: Adding a Dating Component
The new decision to add a dating component in the 17+ section of the game has been met with even more controversy, as it will further encourage people to attempt to use the game to meet children. During the Roblox Developers Conference keynote speech, CEO David Baszucki predicted that "thousands" of adults will meet and form "real-life relationships" in dating experiences. The game also hopes to install a video chat function so people can talk face-to-face with people they meet online. The dating app is part of a five-year plan, and has not been implemented at the time of writing.
Parental Caution Advised
However, parents are encouraged to exercise caution if they allow their children to access the game.
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