Roblox users must complete age checks to access chat features

TechCrunch
TechCrunch
58m ago
Roblox now requires users worldwide to complete an age check to use chat and other communication features.
Roblox users must complete age checks to access chat features
A What happened
Roblox implemented mandatory facial verification for users who want to access chats and is rolling out the requirement globally after testing it in a few markets last month. Users must open the Roblox app, allow camera access, and follow on-screen instructions for facial verification, with ID verification available as an option for users 13 and older. Roblox says it deletes images and videos once the age check is processed, and says its third-party vendor Persona also deletes images and videos after completing the process. Roblox says completed age checks enable age-based chat across six age groups, and chat is disabled by default for children under 9 unless a parent provides consent following an age check.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Chat access depends on verification: Roblox allows use of the platform without age verification, but requires verification to use chat and other communication features.

  • 2

    Age-based chat limits who can communicate: Roblox restricts chat to users in similar age groups, allowing communication only within the same group and the groups directly above and below.

  • 3

    Roblox positions the change as improved accuracy: Roblox says facial or ID verification provides a more accurate way to verify age than self-entered birth year information.

Takeaways

Roblox has expanded age verification globally as a requirement for chat, using facial checks or ID verification and enforcing age-based communication rules.

Topics

Technology & Innovation Social Media World & Politics Policy & Regulation Human Rights

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