Roblox has announced a new age verification requirement for its teen users aged 13 to 17, aimed at enhancing safety within its popular gaming platform. This initiative, revealed on March 15, 2024, introduces a feature called “Trusted Connections,” which allows verified teens to communicate more freely through voice and chat without filters.
To access these new capabilities, teens must complete an age verification process using a video selfie. This technology, powered by the AI-driven product Persona, estimates the user’s age and assigns them to the appropriate age group. If the technology cannot confirm a user’s age accurately, they will need to provide identification. In the future, parents will also have the option to give verified consent to confirm their child’s age.
Safety Measures for Teen Users
The introduction of Trusted Connections aims to foster safer interactions among users. Matt Kaufman, Roblox’s chief safety officer, emphasized that this feature is designed to reduce the incentive for teens to move their conversations off the platform, potentially exposing them to greater risks. “This additional freedom to chat more openly with trusted connections reduces the incentive for teens to move interactions off platform,” Kaufman stated.
Roblox has faced scrutiny for its previous handling of user safety, particularly regarding the ease with which predators could engage with minors. Concerns escalated in 2023 when a group of families filed a class-action lawsuit against the company, alleging it exposed underage users to inappropriate content. While Roblox disputed these claims, the pressure on social media and gaming platforms to enhance safety protocols has intensified.
In addition to the age verification, Roblox is implementing other features to empower users to manage their experience. These include tools to control notifications, screen time, and privacy settings. Users can now activate a “do not disturb” mode, set daily limits for their platform usage, and manage who can see their online status, including the option to appear invisible. Parents will also have visibility into their child’s connections and will receive alerts for financial transactions made on the platform.
Previous Safety Initiatives
Prior to the rollout of Trusted Connections, Roblox had already taken steps to improve user safety. Last year, the platform restricted direct messaging for younger users and introduced new parental control tools. The company’s commitment to creating a safer environment for its users reflects an ongoing effort to address concerns about online safety and privacy.
Kaufman noted that the decision to implement age verification had been under consideration for some time. The timing of the launch coincides with a broader strategy to introduce features intended for an older audience. “We really believe these features should be limited to an older audience, 13 and older,” he explained.
Roblox’s proactive measures, including the implementation of age verification and enhanced features for managing communications, signify a significant step towards protecting young users in an increasingly digital world. As the platform continues to evolve, it remains committed to ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for its community.
