Roblox tightens the screws: new rules after a series of safety lawsuits

The Roblox platform has found itself at the centre of a scandal after a series of lawsuits related to the safety of underage users. In response, the company announced sweeping rule changes that will directly affect millions of players and developers.

What will change

The main innovation is a complete ban on access to "unrated" games (in Roblox they are called experiences). Previously, such projects could be launched by users from 13 years old, but now only the developers and their team will be able to see them. According to the company, this will minimise the risk of children getting into dubious content.

In addition, "social" games with private locations - bedrooms, bathrooms, bars or clubs - will be available only to those who have confirmed their identity and reached the age of 17. This is how Roblox wants to reduce inappropriate behaviour on the platform.

To ensure that the new rules do not remain on paper, the company is implementing a tool to automatically search for "violating scenes". If a server accumulates enough complaints or violations, it will be automatically shut down. Developers will have to work together with moderators to fix the bugs and bring the game back online.

Reasons

All of these moves are in response to lawsuits, including one filed by the Louisiana attorney general. The company says it is doing everything it can to block user exploitation and strengthen its moderation system.

In an official statement, Roblox said, "Any claims that we knowingly put our users at risk are not true. Yes, the system is flawed and violators are always looking for loopholes, but we continue to strengthen our controls."

In other words, Roblox now regulates content more tightly - and that could radically change the usual gaming experience for teens.

Source: Engadget