Roblox Corporation is default-blocking the chat function for users younger than nine years old as part of new safety measures [1].
These changes target a critical vulnerability in online gaming where adult predators may attempt to contact children. By restricting communication for the youngest users, the company aims to create a safer environment for millions of minors worldwide.
As part of the update, the company introduced two new age-based account types [1]. The first is Roblox Kids, designed for users ages five to eight [1]. The second is Roblox Select, which serves users ages nine to 15 [1].
Implementation of these measures began in early June 2024 [1]. However, the restriction was already affecting users who had not completed age verification as of January 2024 [3].
To enforce these boundaries, Roblox uses an AI-powered verification system that may require users to provide a selfie to prove their age [5]. The effectiveness of this technology is a point of contention. Some reports suggest the AI successfully prevents unauthorized chatting [5], while others indicate that simple tactics have fooled the system within a week of its rollout [6].
There are also conflicting reports regarding how the platform handles the blocked communication. While some sources state chat is simply blocked for those under nine [1], other reports suggest that Roblox replaces the blocked chat with an AI-generated summary of conversations [7].
Roblox is headquartered in San Mateo, California [3]. The company said these restrictions are necessary to protect children from predatory behavior [4].
“Roblox is default-blocking the chat function for users younger than nine years old”
The move signals a shift toward more aggressive, AI-driven age gating in the gaming industry. By tiering accounts by age and restricting communication, Roblox is attempting to mitigate the legal and ethical risks associated with child safety. However, the reported gaps in AI verification suggest that technical barriers alone may not fully eliminate the risk of adult-to-child contact on open platforms.
