Russia Blocks Roblox Over Safety and Extremism Concerns

Russia has blocked Roblox, the popular platform known for user-generated games, amid concerns about child safety and content the regulators deem extremist.

Roskomnadzor, the national media regulator, argues the service hosts material that could harm the moral development of minors, a claim reported by local outlets.

Why the ban was imposed

Officials contend the platform contains inappropriate material linked to terrorism and LGBT topics, which Russian authorities classify as extremist or prohibited content. They also cited examples of simulated terrorist scenarios and other risky content that prompt safety warnings for families.

Roblox’s response

A Roblox spokesperson said the company respects local laws and strives to provide a safe, educational space for users, emphasizing its proactive safety measures and ongoing efforts to remove harmful material.

In response to ongoing criticisms about its chat features, Roblox recently announced it would stop allowing children to chat with adult strangers to improve safety around its networking tools.

Safety concerns and moderation challenges

Regulators also flagged reports of sexual harassment involving minors and the sharing of intimate images on the platform. The large, user-generated nature of Roblox makes comprehensive moderation particularly difficult.

Global context

Roblox has faced scrutiny beyond Russia. The platform has been banned or restricted in a few other countries due to safety concerns. In Singapore, authorities cited a case involving a self-radicalized teenager joining ISIS-themed servers in 2023. In the United States, authorities have pursued legal action, arguing the service undermines safety rules and misleads parents about risks.

Despite the controversy, Roblox remains a top download among mobile games in many markets, thanks to its focus on user-created experiences and shared play.

Expert commentary

Dr. Maya Chen, a digital safety analyst, notes that platforms built on user-generated content face distinct moderation hurdles. She emphasizes that strong safeguards are essential to protect children while preserving opportunities for creativity.

Short take

The move in Russia underscores a broader clash between online openness and child protection, prompting ongoing safety enhancements from platforms and closer regulatory oversight around the world.

Key takeaway: Regulators are increasingly scrutinizing user-generated platforms to shield minors, often driving stricter safety measures and tighter moderation. Source